Merrist Wood College and University Centre is delighted to share that Horticulture student, Elle Hepburn, has been named Landscape & Horticulture Learner of the Year at the Landbased and Environment Learner of the Year Awards, supported by , a leading awarding body for land-based industries across the UK and Ireland.
The award, sponsored by The British Association of Landscape Industries (), recognises Elle’s outstanding achievements, hard work and emerging talent in the Landscape and Horticulture industry.
Elle, 25, was nominated by both her tutors at and Curriculum Manager Ruth Orrell-Harris, in recognition of her dedication, determination, and creativity – making Elle an inspiring emerging figure in horticulture, and she was up against some stiff competition!
From Beginner to Award-Winning Horticulturist in 18 Months
Incredibly, in just 18 months and coming with no horticulture experience, Elle has completed her Level 2 RHS Practical and Theory courses, received a silver award at BBC Gardeners World Live for her beautiful garden border ‘Little Library’, and has begun her professional journey as a WRAGS (Women Returners to Amenity Gardening Scheme) trainee, furthering her practical expertise in the horticulture sector.
Elle’s goal now is to advocate for greater accessibility in horticulture, highlighting its potential to support mental health and encouraging community projects that create a positive impact on a wider audience.
Elle said: “I am absolutely over the moon to have won the Landbased & Horticulture Learner of the Year award! It’s such an honour to be recognised by LANTRA and the British Association of Landscape Industries for something I’m so passionate about.
The support and encouragement I’ve received from everyone at Merrist Wood College has been incredible, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without their guidance. Winning this award has given me even more confidence to pursue my dreams in horticulture, and I’m excited to keep learning, growing, and making an impact in this amazing industry.”
Celebrating Excellence in Horticulture
Jo Manser, Merrist Wood Group Director, said: “”We are absolutely delighted that Elle has been recognised as the Landbased & Horticulture Learner of the Year at the prestigious Land Based and Environment Learner of the Year Awards.
Elle is a true inspiration to her peers and a shining example of the transformative impact of further education and determination. We couldn’t be prouder of her success and can’t wait to see where her horticultural journey takes her next.”
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