Forestry & Arboriculture Level 2

You will gain industry-specific qualifications including basic chainsaw use, tree planting, machinery operations and estate skills.

This is a very practical introduction to the skills required to work safely and effectively in the forestry and countryside industry. You will follow a seasonal work pattern, gaining a wide range of experience by working and learning on the College’s superb 250 hectare estate. There is the opportunity to develop broader skills, which will ensure your progression towards a rewarding and satisfying career. Establishing a broad understanding of the working environment is vital to becoming a valued and useful member of any forestry or countryside business. Practical skills are underpinned by sound theory and working examples. As the course is designed as a ‘preapprenticeship’ programme you will be in an ideal position to progress to an apprenticeship with the College.

Qualification Level 2 Diploma in Forestry & Arboriculture

Duration One year

Course Content A selection of unit titles is shown below. • Land-based Business Studies • Establish Trees & Shrubs • Carry Out Ground-based Arboriculture Operations • Introduction to Land-based Machinery Operations • Felling & Extraction of Timber • Estate Maintenance

Assessment is continuous, with assignments, projects and practical work. This course includes 150 hours of work experience with local estates and contractors within the industry through the duration of the course. All full-time students will be required to study maths and English at the appropriate level. Please see page 6 for more details. Entry Requirements • Four GCSEs at grade 3 (grade D) or above (to include maths and English) or successful completion of a suitable and relevant Level 1 qualification at a distinction grade • Successful interview and initial assessment in literacy and numeracy • Applicants will be expected to demonstrate enthusiasm and commitment to the chosen subject area

Progression Progression routes shown are dependent on successful completion of qualifications and meeting entry criteria.

Study options may include: • Forestry or Arboriculture Apprenticeship Levels 2 or 3 • Industry-based Certificates of Competence

Employment options may include: • Forest/Woodland Worker in Public or Private Sectors • Grounds & Estate Maintenance • Self-employed • Conservation or Forestry work on Country Estate or for a Countryside Organisation

You may also like... • Intermediate Apprenticeship in Forestry or Arboriculture • Level 2 in Agriculture

Course Costs Please note, the costs given below are subject to change.

Aged 16-18 years There are no tuition or examination fees | Materials Fee £180

Aged 19 or over (at the start of the course) Tuition Fee £945 | Materials Fee £180 | Registration/Exam Fee £160. We also offer the following apprenticeships as an alternative to full-time study: • Arborist Standard, Level 2 • Forest Operative, Level 2, with choice of 2 specialisms – Harvesting or Establishment & Maintenance

Course Content As an employed apprentice you will gain practical skills along with knowledge and understanding relevant to your chosen course. Including: • Health & safety • Tree identification • Establishing trees • Emergency First Aid +F • Surveying & inspecting trees • Operating machinery to fell trees • Operating machinery to process trees

You will also gain a number of certificates of competence which will allow you to work safely in the industry.

Duration and Attendance You will spend most of your time in the workplace employed as an apprentice. There will be blockrelease training days planned within your course. You will be expected to attend functional skills classes unless you already have prior achievement. Duration is typically 24 months.