Hannah left school with 8 GCSE's A-C and then went to college to do A levels. During her time at college Hannah realised that the academic route was not for her, so after doing her exams, she began work in the family business at The Herb Garden, Hardsoft. Quickly realising that she needed more in depth knowledge Hannah, now 20, started an Advanced Apprenticeship (AA) in commercial Horticulture two and a half years ago.

Hannah says, "I love my work as it is so varied. No two days are the same. I have full responsibility for the Lavender Garden and Pot-Pourri garden as well as the sales beds and I have also started a cut flower section that I hope will be commercially successful. I enjoy studying for my NVQ as it has given me the background knowledge that I needed and it fits in so well with the practical aspects of the job. At the moment I am looking into biological controls - using insects to control pests - this is a new benefit to the business. The Tutor comes to see me here which is great as I didn't want to go to college. When I finish my Advanced Apprenticeship, I hope to go onto either a HNC in Horticulture or a Royal Horticultural Society Certificate. I would love my own business eventually but with my qualifications and experience I know that I could get a job anywhere in horticulture."

So has working for her parents been successful? Mrs Raynor had no doubts "Hannah is brilliant. She comes in early, stays late and is full of energy and enthusiasm. Her NVQ has brought a more technical dimension to the business and through her training she is always coming up with new ideas. We really wouldn't like to face the job without her now.