Despite many industries and small businesses taking a hit as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the floristry industry has seen a major spike in demand as Australians opt to send their loved ones bouquets during tough times and in the lead up to Mothers’ Day. 

With the absence of social gatherings and current social distancing requirements, many people have turned to local florists to deliver love to the doorstep during lockdown. Local flower growers have also benefitted from the current climate due to a shortage of imported flowers. 

To ensure there are enough qualified florists during this period, TAFE NSW has transitioned floristry courses to connected delivery, so Western Sydney flower enthusiasts can continue to learn hands-on skills to support the growing demand in the industry.  

TAFE NSW teachers are delivering live classes to students via Microsoft Teams so that students can continue to gain practical skills whilst still observing social distancing requirements. The innovative mode of delivery has been well received by Certificate III in Floristry student, Nam Christodoulou, who is eager to continue her course as Term 2 begins.  

Nam is a florist assistant at local florist shop, Roses Only, in Sydney and said the shop had been extremely busy during COVID-19. 

“Continuing my study through connected learning means I can receive my qualifications on time and not put my career on hold,” Nam said. 

“TAFE NSW teachers have been really supportive through the transition to connected delivery with no disruption to our learning.” 

Nam said connected learning now gave her the opportunity to re-watch her classes in her own time, while she worked more hours at the florist shop. 

TAFE NSW floristry students are learning hands-on skills like how to assemble a Mothers’ Day bouquet and construct vase arrangements from the comfort of their own home. The live stream allows students to ask real-time questions to their TAFE NSW teacher, where teachers can pause and interact with students throughout their step-by-step tutorials.  

TAFE NSW Padstow Floristry teacher David Berger said it was particularly important for classes to continue during the COVID-19 pandemic because the floristry industry is seeing high demand in the lead up to Mother’s Day, which is considered one of their busiest times of the year.  

“It’s fantastic that TAFE NSW floristry has adapted to connected delivery without disruption to students so they can continue their course and graduate on time,” Mr Berger said.  

“Students can rest assured that teachers will guide their class through all of their learning activities and provide individual support to help them stay on track.”  

TAFE NSW has adopted connected learning as a new mode of delivery because it supports social distancing during COVID-19 and allows students to be connected to their teacher. In many cases, this still supports students to demonstrate their competency in their courses.  

To find out more about the floristry courses at TAFE NSW, visit www.tafensw.edu.au, or call 131 601. 

Media Contact: Jessica Cortis, Media and Communications Business Partner, 0456 170 211, Jessica.cortis1@tafensw.edu.au