Apprenticeship Courses

Arboriculture (Trees and Timber) Advanced Level Apprenticeship - 2012:13

Location:  Merrist Wood College Course Code:  OD02WP1A001P Year:  2012:13 Start Date:  Continuous Duration:  20 months Attendance:  One day a week FT/PT:  Part-Time      Exam Board:  NPTC (previously known as National Proficiency Tests Council) Level:  3 Tuition Fees:  £0 Exam Fees:  £0

Content / Overview

This Apprenticeship covers the main occupations within the trees and timber industry. This industry includes the establishment, care, maintenance and management of trees, woodlands and forests, as well as the production of wood and timber products. Trees are one of the world’s major natural resources, and an essential part of the environment. The course content includes tree and plant species: characteristics and identification; timber mensuration and measurement; first aid; health and safety; functional skills: Maths or English. On the job training will include identifying different species; tree health; safe use of equipment; practical skills.

Why Study Here

Practical work is carried out both in the woods, the golf course and ornamental grounds of the College's 400 acre estate and on outside worksites, giving a good range of realistic working situations. Skilled and experienced tutors make full use of the well-equipped workshops, laboratories and wide range of machinery during the course, whilst the diverse range of tree and shrub species in the woodlands, ornamental grounds and plant nursery provides an excellent resource for developing plant knowledge. Several renowned gardens and aboreta, such as Kew, Wisley and Winkworth, are within easy reach of Merrist Wood.
 

Suitable For

Anyone wishing to start a career in forestry or arboriculture, or those already working in the industry who wish to further their career.

Application Method

Application followed by individual interview

Entry Requirements

The entry requirements are flexible, however, one of the following or an equivalent qualification/experience must be completed:
- Intermediate Apprenticeship in Trees & Timber
- Level 2 qualification in a related subject
- 3 GCSEs (A*-C)/A Levels

This apprenticeship can also be for adult learners who have experience within the industry or who are looking for a career change or progression.
All applicants will need to be in relevant employment by the time the course starts.

 

Delivery Method

This course will be delivered by a combination of theory and practical sessions.

Progression

Possible employment opportunities include: assistant head forester, contractor (harvesting and/or establishment), social forester, woodland manager, team leader/supervisor.