How I gained for this internship

Most of you may know how I manged to achieved to get this internship, but have probably explained it briefly to some people who have been interested in it.


Every year at Pershore College, a placement for a Horticultural-based internship for six weeks in Holland is up for grabs for one student. This internship is called 'The Peter Williamson Travel Award'. Peter Williamson studied at Pershore College as well (long before me!). When he was younger, he would spend his summer holidays travelling throughout Europe working in Horticultural Nurseries, to gain valuable knowledge, as well as experience at the same time. Peter Williamson then became involved with Wyevale Nurseries (who supply plants to all of the Wyvale Garden Centres in the UK).

Sadly Peter Williamson passed away a few years ago, but kindly gave some money towards Pershore College in his will, so that one student every year can work at a Dutch Nursery for six weeks in the summer. His aim was to encourage the younger generation of Horticulturists to also gain knowledge and experience as he did in his younger years . As well as a placement, a money contribution is given to the fortunate student to help book flights, accommodation and other requirements they may need.



I was aware of 'The Peter Williamson Travel Award' when I joined Pershore College four years ago, but had no interest what so ever (plus not having the confidence, and also never being abroad, or never owing a passport before probably didn't help either!) It was only the last year of my studies that I decided to apply!

Applying for this internship was done in the same method when applying for a job (by sending in a C.V, cover letter and then finally having an interview a few weeks later on).

I had my interview a few weeks later when sending in my C.V and cover letter. There were five other students who also applied for this internship. My interview went better than I expected, but had this feeling inside of me that I wasn't going to get it.

It was then a few weeks later that I learnt that I got the internship! The Email that I received to let me know of the good news made me feel humble. I also kind of felt bad/guilty at the same time, as one of my closet friends applied, but wasn't successful. He was very supportive though towards my success - a really good friend!



Over the past 3-4 months, I have been negotiating with the organiser (Steve Ashworth) of 'The Peter Williamson Travel Award', who also interviewed me, to help find me a placement in Holland for the six weeks, that also met my Horticultural requirements.
I can happily confirm I will be working at two Nurseries, which both specialise in propagation (3 weeks at each Nursery).

Both Nurseries are both situated in a small town in Central Holland called 'Dodewaard'. The closest well-known town near by is 'Arnhem'.


I fly out to Holland this Sunday with Dad, who kindly decided to take me over, as again, I have never flown before, so he can help me understand on how the airport systems work!

I just finally like to thank everyone who has been encouraging me throughout this process! I will keep everyone up to date via my blog! :)