Forestry and Arboriculture Level 2 Course

Forestry and Arboriculture Level 2

Course Details

  • Department

    Forestry and Arboriculture
  • Qualification

    Level 2
  • Course Type

    Full Time
  • Length

    1 Year
  • Location(s)

    York

Course at a glance

Modern forestry and arboriculture encompass far more than growing trees for timber, and this course will provide you with the basic skills needed to pursue one of many careers in the field. From futures in large forest management to overseeing trees in urban landscapes, a mix of practical experience and theory will equip you for a wide range of roles or further training.

Entry Requirements

4 GCSEs

at least 4 GCSEs at grading level 3 (Old GCSE grade E) or above including Maths and English with Science desirable. Alternatively a suitable Level 1 vocational qualification with English and Maths at Level 1.

Cost for students aged Under 19

Free

for students over the age of 19 please contact us

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Key Information

This course aims to provide a basic understanding of the practical and theoretical elements of arboriculture, the care and management of trees, forestry, and the care and management of woodlands. The course covers the following modules:

 

  • Working in forestry or arboriculture-related business
  • Introduction to the forestry and arboriculture sectors
  • Health and safety for the land-based industries
  • Tools and equipment
  • Environment and conservation
  • Introduction to pant science
  • Tree classification and identification
  • Tree establishment
  • Tree and woodland management

Students’ work is assessed by multiple choice exams and a synoptic assessment such as a multiple-part simulated business exercise. Further details will be provided at interviews.

Why choose us?

  • Excellent college resources including a stunning arboretum, woodland, orchard and temperate glasshouse.
  • An additional certificate of competence (known as a ‘ticket’ in the industry) from the college’s commercial courses department, such as Woodchipper use, Brushcutter, or Chainsaw Maintenance and Cross-Cutting.

Usually at least 4 GCSEs at grading level 3 (Old GCSE grade E) or above including Maths and English with Science desirable. Alternatively a suitable Level 1 vocational qualification with English and Maths at Level 1.

 

You don’t need any previous experience working with tress.

Upon successful completion of this course, students may progress onto the Level 3 Advanced Diploma in Forestry and Arboriculture. Alternatively, this course would give you the relevant skills to enter the Arboriculture Industry at the trainee level.

Career pathways

Graduating from this course you could go on to become a:

  • Forestry worker
  • Arborist in a commercial or domestic business
  • Trainee technician or sales-person in an arboriculture or forestry supply chain business
  • Trainee in a tree nursery
  • Trainee or apprentice with the National Trust, Forestry Commission, Local Authority tree and woodland departments, or similar organisations

Continue to Level 3 study and you could go on to:

  • International forestry or arboriculture work (working in America, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Sweden or others)
  • Small business owner
  • Local Authority Assistant Tree Officer
  • Park Ranger
  • Once you have more experience, you could become a lead climber or team supervisor

Progression and Development Sessions

All students enrolled on a Level 2 or Level 3 course will be required to attend Progression and Development sessions every week. These sessions will cover a wide range of topics from careers and employability, British Values and equality and diversity to essential life skills such as mental health and wellbeing, drugs and alcohol and personal safety.

 

Higher Education:

Students can progress from Levels 2 and 3 to eventually enrol on a Foundation Science Degree in Arboriculture and Urban Forestry. A degree can open many doors, including:

  • Working in the plant health sector
  • Consultant Arboriculturist
  • Managing projects tackling climate change and biosecurity
  • Forestry Commission Tree and Woodlands Officer

 

There is a requirement to complete 150 hours of work placement (work experience) with an industry-related organisation. More details can be provided at the interview. Our Employability Team is available to help you get started.

 

 

Students often look for a placement close to home, usually with local arboriculture companies.

Course costs, such as trip fees and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) costs will be discussed at the interview. Current COVID restrictions prevent us from using some of our PPE stock. This is under constant review.

 

 

You are expected to purchase a pair of work boots with protective toecaps. These do not have to be chainsaw protective boots.

  • York Campus

    York is one of the College's two residential campuses and is located just four miles from York city centre. At York we offer a full range of subject areas and levels including Apprenticeships, Level 1-3 Diplomas, Foundation, Top Up and BSc Honours Degrees.

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Great place to study

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A wonderful 'green' campus to enjoy.

Student Stories

Siobhanโ€™s Story

โ€œAskham Bryan College is a fantastic college. It has been a pleasure learning here. All the tutors are willing to go above and beyond to ensure you have the best knowledge possible. I would recommend this college to anyone wanting to become a Registered Veterinary Nurse. โ€

Ryanโ€™s Story

โ€œChoosing the level 3 Arboriculture course was a big decision being a 31-year-old self-employed landscape gardener. I am now at the end of my first year and there is no looking back. I have come on leaps and bounds professionally. I have already expanded my business into arboriculture with the skills and knowledge I have learnt. Askham Bryan College has been an eye opener and I've learned skills that I will take through my entire life.โ€

Ellieโ€™s Story

โ€œI chose Askham Bryan College because I liked what the course covered especially Anatomy & Physiology and Coaching. I enjoy taking part in training and I am hoping to go on to further coaching courses in football at University. The course is great to prepare me for this career.โ€

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