Forestry & Arboriculture - Level 2
You will gain industry-specific qualifications including basic chainsaw use, tree planting, machinery operations and estate skills.
Course Overview
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 ‘pre-apprenticeship’ 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
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.
Maths and English
All students following a full-time programme of study at HLC will study English and maths as part of their studies, please refer to the Study Programmes page of this website.
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 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 and Estate Maintenance
- Self-employed
- Conservation or Forestry work on Country Estate or for a Countryside Organisation
You may also like...
Course Costs
Aged 16 - 18 years: There are no tuition or exam fees
Aged 19 years or over: Tuition Fee £995 | Registration/Exam Fee £165
Additional Course Costs: £310
Personal Equipment: You will also be expected to buy your own equipment costing approximately £150.
Please Note: Costs are subject to change, please call Enquiries on 0800 032 1986 to check.
See Also: Fees Guidance - Full Time and Fee Reductions for Adults
Apprenticeships
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 chosencourse, 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 block-release 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.
Contact
Telephone: 0800 032 1986
Email: admissions@hlcollege.ac.uk