Jo Thompson will assume the role of head of garden design studies at the London College of Garden Design (LCGD) starting in September 2026, joining a faculty that is increasingly staffed by active industry professionals.
New leadership for the Garden Design Diploma
The College’s flagship Garden Design Diploma, which has produced a steady stream of graduates working in garden and setting design, will now be overseen by Thompson and deputy head Duncan Cargill. Both designers will keep taking commissions for private clients while managing curriculum development, student learning and industry engagement.
Thompson, an award‑winning designer, recently displayed her work at The Archers 75th Anniversary Garden at the RHS Badminton Flower Show and at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in 2025. Her style is described as romantic and colour‑led, and she is noted for a personable teaching approach that makes complex principles more approachable.
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Cargill, one half of the studio Cargill Sykes, brings experience in mentoring designers and building creative confidence. Cargill said the Diploma “has earned a reputation for excellence and professionalism,” and expressed enthusiasm for helping students bridge education and practice.
College aims to tighten ties with the industry
Director Nina Baxter highlighted that Thompson has been a tutor and friend to the College for nearly two decades, while Cargill is an alumnus. “Both are outstanding designers with a deep commitment to education and professional development,” she said, adding that their combined expertise will keep the program aligned with evolving demands in garden design.
The appointment comes as LCGD seeks to strengthen its teaching by hiring practising professionals who already influence the garden design sector. This strategy reflects a broader trend in vocational education where institutions prioritize real‑world experience over purely academic instruction.
The diploma remains the core program.
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Jo Thompson expressed her gratitude, stating, “It’s a huge honour to be asked to take on this role at the London College of Garden Design. The college has been incredibly influential in supporting new design talent over the last 20 years, and I am really proud to now have the opportunity to work with them.” She added that good guidance and mentorship are vital, and she looks forward to helping the next generation “go beyond the textbooks and dig deeper into what makes a truly successful outdoor space.”
While the new appointments signal continuity, they also suggest a shift toward more hands‑on learning. Students can expect increased exposure to current industry practices, which may improve their readiness for professional work after graduation.
Both Thompson and Cargill will begin their posts in September 2026, marking the start of what the college describes as an “exciting new chapter.” The institution hopes that their leadership will sustain the Diploma’s reputation and adapt it to future challenges in garden design.
