DCG Success Stories

Tree surgeon Nathanael Confaloni had an inkling that he could run a business, but somehow doubted that he ever would.

But after taking Horticulture Level 2 and 3 at Derby College, and with a little nudge from his lecturers, that is exactly what he is doing. Nathanael, 24, got a love for gardening and landscaping from both of his green-fingered grandfathers.

He decided to take Horticulture at Broomfield Hall. The Level 2 course – “it was really good” – gave him skills and knowledge in areas such as plant nursery, landscaping and plant stock.

He said Level 3 furthered his skills and gave him the option of going on to university. But during college, Nathanael had worked part-time with the landscaping and tree surgery business, MW Haspel.

When he was offered a full-time job, he decided to go down that route, and also gained his qualifications for tree surgery. After a period with another business, Nathanael accepted the opportunity to return and run and manage MW Haspel’s tree surgery operation.

Derby College had given him the skills and knowledge to set him on the road, with Level 3 giving him “a really helpful” insight into business management. His dad also managed his own business, fitting security cameras and lights, which provided useful background knowledge.

In future he said he may have the opportunity to take on the business entirely. And the best part of the job? The “awesome” views from the top of the tallest trees.