Before winning the BALI Chalk Landscape Student of the Year in 2023 and studying at Wiltshire (Lackham) College, Russell Fletcher was a builder, working for his father’s business. He attended the BALI National Landscape Awards event with his father, on what he sees as one of the most rewarding days of his career to date. Russell takes up the story from 2023 onwards.
How did you feel when receiving the award on the day?
“I’ll never forget that day. Walking into the BALI National Landscape Awards with my dad felt surreal enough, but actually going up on stage to receive my Student of the Year Award – it was one of the most rewarding moments of my career so far. I’d come from working as a builder in my father’s business, so to be recognised in the landscape sector like that gave me a huge confidence boost. It made me feel that I really did belong in this industry and that people would take me seriously.”
Where are you now in your career?
“After working for some time at Lackham College on the gardens team and thanks in part to my brother’s encouragement before he sadly passed away in February 2025, I set up my own company, Fletchscape Gardens. We now manage 22 gardens across domestic and commercial sites. We also work closely with Fletcher and Sons, my dad’s building firm, so whenever there’s an extension or outdoor construction project, we pick up the landscaping side.
I’ve also returned to Lackham as a Variable Hours Lecturer (VHL) one day a week, giving back by training apprentices in landscaping and horticulture, which has been incredibly rewarding. I’m registered with the Gardeners Guild as a Consultant and I’m a member of the Chartered Institute of Horticulture. My wife has joined the business too, balancing work with raising our three boys, and she’s now studying for her RHS Diploma at Lackham. We even have a Lackham student on work experience with us, which feels like things have come full circle.”
What difference do you think receiving the Award has made, and why is it worth entering?
“Winning the award genuinely changed the direction of my career. It gave me the push I needed to strike out on my own. I don’t think I’d have had the same confidence without it. The recognition opened doors, helped me build credibility, and made me feel like the landscaping sector was somewhere I could really make my mark.
For students thinking of entering the Awards themselves, I’d say go for it. It gives you visibility, belief in your abilities, and a platform to grow from.”
What are your future plans?
“In the short term, I’m working on building a strong enough portfolio to apply for BALI membership. I’m also training towards becoming a Landscape Assessor. I’ve recently been asked to present to a local SEND school too. With personal and family experience of ADHD, autism, and other learning considerations, I know how well students with those needs can thrive where practical skills and a structural work programme are such a good fit.
Long term, I want to keep growing Fletchscape Gardens in a way that honours my brother’s legacy and continues to support local students. I see the business expanding, but always with training, opportunity, and community at its heart.”