Two Horticulture students from Merrist Wood College and University Centre have been recognised for their outstanding achievements by the British Association of Landscape Industries (BALI) Chalk Fund, which provides funding and bursaries for skills development across the landscape industry.
Harry Bulmer (19), Level 3 Horticulture student at Merrist Wood College, and Alfie Grimes (31), a RHS Level 2 student, have been named Regional Students of the Year by the British Association of Landscape Industries (BALI) Chalk Fund.
This prestigious accolade recognises exceptional commitment, passion, and achievement within the horticulture and landscape industries, this award is a testament to their hard work and dedication throughout their studies and follows last year’s winners Ryan Conlon and Charlie White both from Merrist Wood College. Both students have received certificates and a cash prize of £100 each.
Harry’s award was presented by Brian Herbert, Chair of the BALI South Thames Committee and a proud Merrist Wood alumnus, during a celebratory visit to the college. Brian praised Harry for his outstanding performance, both in practical work and academic excellence.
As South Thames regional winners, Harry and Alfie will now progress to the national finals, where they will represent the region and Merrist Wood College at a national level – a remarkable achievement in itself.
The competition consists of two stages. In the first stage, BALI member colleges and training providers nominate their top-performing students in landscape and garden design. These nominees are then assessed by the BALI Chalk Fund trustees, who select the National Students of the Year in both disciplines.
Winners of the national award will be invited to attend the prestigious BALI National Landscape Awards in December, where they will receive a further £500 cash prize, and their college will receive an additional £500.
In addition to this success, Harry has also been recognised internally at the college, receiving both the Top Student Award and Best Academic Award for his year group.
Richard Cant, Curriculum Manager for Land-based subjects at Merrist Wood College and University Centre, said: “We’re absolutely delighted for both Harry and Alfie. Their success in the BALI awards is thoroughly well-deserved and reflects the commitment and drive they’ve shown throughout their time with us.”
“These awards not only celebrate their individual talent but also showcase the strength of the teaching and hands-on experience offered here at Merrist Wood. We’re really proud to see our students gaining the recognition they deserve and look forward to watching them thrive as they move forward in the industry.”
“Harry and Alfie both have bright futures ahead of them, and we’re confident they’ll go on to make a real impact in the world of horticulture and landscaping.”
Everyone at Merrist Wood College wishes Harry and Alfie the very best as they prepare for the next stage of the BALI Student of the Year Awards, and we look forward to seeing what the future holds for these talented horticulturists.
More information on Merrist Wood College’s horticulture and landscaping courses.
