New Garden Design Leadership Team

We are delighted to announce the appointment of Jo Thompson as Head of Garden Design Studies and Duncan Cargill as Deputy Head of Garden Design Studies.

Together, they will lead the College’s world-renowned Garden Design Diploma from September 2026, bringing a wealth of professional experience, creative vision and educational expertise to the next generation of garden designers.

The appointments mark an exciting new chapter for the College, further strengthening its commitment to teaching by practising professionals whose work continues to influence and shape the garden design profession.

Jo Thompson is one of the world’s leading garden designers, celebrated for her romantic, colour-led approach to English garden design. Her gardens have featured at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, where she has won multiple awards, and her instinct for planting and colour has made her one of the most distinctive voices in British garden design today. As sought-after for her teaching as she is for her design work, she is known for a warm, personable style that makes complex design thinking feel accessible to students at every stage of their careers.

Joining her in the leadership team, Duncan Cargill is an accomplished garden and landscape designer whose work combines strong design thinking with a deep understanding of planting, place and client experience. Alongside his professional practice, Duncan has built a reputation as a highly regarded educator and mentor, helping aspiring designers develop both their creative confidence and technical expertise.

Nina Baxter, Director of the London College of Garden Design, said: “I am really excited to welcome Jo and Duncan to the LCGD team. Jo has been a tutor and friend to the College since it began nearly 20 years ago and Duncan is one of our own graduates. Both are outstanding designers with a deep commitment to education and professional development. Their combined expertise, creativity and generosity as mentors will ensure that our students continue to receive an exceptional learning experience that reflects the evolving demands and opportunities of the garden design profession. I am excited about the future direction of the Diploma under their leadership.”

Together, Jo Thompson and Duncan Cargill will lead the Diploma programme from September 2026, overseeing curriculum development, student learning and industry engagement while maintaining the high standards that have made the London College of Garden Design a respected centre for professional garden design education.