Congratulations to Isobel Curran from Cornwall College. Isobel, studying for her BSc (Hons) Horticulture (Garden & Landscape Design), has been selected as one of our 2026 Garden Design Students of the Year for the South West region.
Enthusiastically supporting how landscape and design can positively impact environment and society, Isobel has gained confidence to take on much larger projects. This has broadened her career pathways from garden design to landscape architecture, supported by her ongoing work within The Eden Project.
Her client work this year has enabled her to create strong arguments for sustainable practice, convincing project leaders to adopt more cohesive and climate-resilient planting plans – and seeing underutilised areas potentially transformed when planting is complete.
She has big plans for education and wants to work with community groups, schools and councils to promote horticulture as a viable career path, worthy of serious consideration by children and young people and one they should be encouraged to embrace in its practical skills, particularly in the face of emerging threats from AI.
Outlining the potential impact this award will have on Isobel, HE Programme Manager (HND Garden and Landscape Design) Elliot Fitzhugh said:
“Receiving this award would be a significant affirmation of Isobel’s transition from student to emerging professional. It would recognise not only her academic success, but also her commitment to sustainability, professional growth and industry engagement. The award will strengthen her professional profile and support her long-term aspiration to establish a practice rooted in environmentally responsible design.”