Graduate reviews of our garden design courses

Three recent Garden Design School graduates appear in these short YouTube videos and reflect on their career journey’s and time studying.

I found that the course delivered everything that was promised. The instruction was superb and I felt that the instructors were extremely knowledgeable. Their dedication and skills enabled me to proceed with a great confidence in my ability to take all that I learned and compete at a very high level. Joanne Gilmartin, graduate

I had toyed with the idea of changing career and doing something in horticulture for several years, and finally decided to take the plunge into garden design. As this was to be a life-changing step for me (leaving behind an established, well-paid career) I wanted to be sure I would receive the best possible training to equip me for my new career. While many of the one-year diploma courses available offer a similar course syllabus, it was the fact I’d be working with highly-regarded, practising garden designers that really swayed my decision. I also felt confident I would be learning the skills and techniques that really matter if you are serious about developing a career as a garden designer.
"It’s easily the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done and I’m pleased to say that (Robin and Moira’s) high standards have rubbed off on me and I am now happily practising what they preached and securing interesting design projects since completing the course." Christine Wilkie, graduate

I have so much knowledge and confidence that I never anticipated. I am very pleased with the programme, what I have learnt and how much fun I am having!   Kim Zoriger, graduate

Robin Templar-Williams and Moira Farnham's teaching and commitment to each one of us was of the highest calibre - and as working garden designers they brought a wealth of experience to the classroom.
I now run a successful garden design practice with a variety of different projects on the go - from small city back yards to converted farmhouses with rolling acres. Life is busy - and I love what I do. My thanks to The Garden Design School for giving me the opportunity, rather later than most, to start a new career." Annie Nicholl, graduate

GDS has a winning formula. The twelve month course covers everything a student needs to know to become a garden designer. The tuition by Robin, Moira and the guest lecturers provide expertise and experience from practitioners. Robin and Moira combine well to ensure that the course is business-like but always good fun. Colin A Campbell, graduate

Hard work? You bet, but it is a fantastic experience working with some of the best people in the business. This is not a course based on theory. We are constantly referring to live and past projects, learning the facts that are essential if we plan to turn learning into a business." Gordon Croy, graduate

I always felt that Robin and Moira were committed to delivering the course to the highest possible standard and were conscientious to the end. Lovely course, great process of learning, always interesting and a fabulous class to be part of. Thank you very much!!! Rachel Young, graduate

As practising garden designers Robin and Moira are knowledgeable and supportive tutors - the training they provide is second to none - and after graduation they are still only a phone call or e-mail away if you need advice.  Gillian Sandham, graduate

I'd just like to reiterate how positive the whole experience was - lots of hard work, expert tuition by committed experienced professionals who generously share their knowledge and genuinely aim to preparfe their students for a successful career in garden design. Alex Nikolic, graduate

Attending this course on this fascinating subject is one of the best things I have done! As a foreign student it also gave me a new and positive view of England. Louise Qvarnstrom, graduate

It's been the best year of my life! Robin and Moira have been fantastic. I have joined the best twelve people to do the course with and have made really great friends. Having completed the course I am amazed at how much I have learned and the strength of my knowledge. Thank you very much for the marvellous opportunity. Martin Hazlewood, graduate

I think the course is very well structured and packed full of essential elements. The quality of the tutors is very high. Robin and Moira really make it extra special. I think it is very difficult to see how the course could be improved as it is already excellent. Sarah Smith, graduate

 

I had never used any of the pens or instruments before, nor had any design experience, yet through their teaching skills I feel like I have been given the confidence and ability to actually get out there and earn money doing it!

Elaine Bailey,graduate

 

I found the course to be thoroughly interesting, relevant and enjoyable. Robin and Moira are excellent and inspiring teachers and having now completed the course I feel equipped and motivated to set up my own garden design practice. Thank you! Nick Chadwick, graduate

You get out of it what you put in to it and I put a lot in and I got a lot out! Nicola Warnants, graduate