Level 5 Floristry students from Moreton Morrell College took the spotlight at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show, one of the most acclaimed annual events in the floristry world. Porta Nova participated as one of the main sponsors during this year’s event by offering stems of Red Naomi roses for the students to create their stunning installation dubbed ‘Awakening DNA: rooted in nature together’.
‘‘Awakening DNA: rooted in nature together’ which was featured in the Great Pavilion at the show, reflected the start, middle and end of nature’s journey, and how florists have a role to play at key stages throughout a person’s life.
The installation was created by Catey Burn, Heather Hume, Jen Jones, Anna Leoniak, Renata Petrauskiene, Jane Sked-Connop, Amanda Stagg, and Katherine Weekes, with support from floristry tutor Jane Benefield. The students are all currently studying towards a Masters Diploma in Professional Floristry.
Jane Benefield and Katherine Weekes joined by a Chelsea pensioner 
Amanda Stagg, Jane Sked-Connop, Katherine Weekes, Catey Burn, Jen Jones and Elizabeth Newcombe
Jane Benefield and Katherine Weekes were interviewed by BBC as part of the broadcaster’s coverage of RHS Chelsea Flower Show where Moreton Morrell College was exclusively selected to showcase its work.
Speaking on behalf of the students behind the installation, Katherine Weekes had some kind words to share with Porta Nova.
“On behalf of the student team, we are very grateful to Porta Nova for the generous sponsorship of the Red Naomi roses. These flowers were such a key impactful element of the central pillar within the design. The velvety Red texture really added visual interest and depth to the design, as well as us really benefitting from Red Naomi’s longevity during daily waterings,” said Katherine.
Their installation featured three double willow helices, which were created under mentorship from Warwickshire Willow, which reflected birth, abundance and decay. During the show, their work received praise from Dame Mary Berry, the Duchess of York Sarah Ferguson and the many other attendees who visited the stand.
Jane, speaking after the event, said: “It was an absolute privilege to be at the greatest flower show in the world with an amazing team of students. They made Moreton Morrell College proud and it was an incredible event for them to be involved in from conceptualizing to organising and actualizing. It will be a good addition to the student’s CVs.”
And added, “There was a lot of pressure, there were a lot of challenges to overcome, but they did that and delivered a wonderful installation. The whole project was exemplary of the ethos at the college, with everyone pulling together to make it happen. I’d like to personally congratulate the students on delivering a fantastic project and thank them for showcasing our college so brilliantly on the biggest floristry stage.”
Katherine Weekes described the event as a fantastic experience and opportunity as it was the first time most of the team members were exhibiting at Chelsea.
“Creating this design would not have been possible without the sponsorship of materials from supporters such as Porta Nova. We are very grateful to the RHS and all of our sponsors for providing us with this opportunity as well as putting British floral education on the main stage at an industry event such as Chelsea,” said Katherine.
