Level 2 Forestry And Arboriculture Course in Durham. Classes run at East Durham College Houghall Campus, full-time during the day over 36 weeks. The course is free if you're 16 to 18 years old. If you're 19 or over, fees may apply depending on your circumstances. This forestry and arboriculture qualification gives you craftsperson status in the industry. You'll cover a mix of theory and practical work, building a portfolio of evidence as you develop your skills. Entry requires a grade D or above at GCSE in Maths, English and Science.
Who this course is for
The level 2 Technical Certificate in Arboriculture is a one year full time course which gives the learner craftsperson status within the industry. Following completion of this level 2 course you could gain employment in the land-based sector, assisting in the forestry and timber industry. You will cover a mixture of theory and practical activities and will work to collect evidence throughout the year of the skills that you are gaining. This work will then be used to build a portfolio of evidence for the course. The Houghall estate provides the ideal environment for you to gain practical skills and knowledge and also gives you the opportunity to develop essential employability skills. You will also get the opportunity to work on external sites for separate companies gaining vital experience.
Entry requirements
A love of trees and a good education. Applicants must have a grade D at GCSE in Maths, English and Science
What you will learn
You'll develop practical tree care and arboriculture skills through hands-on training.
You'll learn how to work safely with trees, including climbing and maintenance techniques.
You'll study forestry principles and how timber is managed and harvested.
You'll build a portfolio of evidence demonstrating the skills you gain throughout the year.
You'll cover health and safety practices relevant to land-based and forestry work.
You'll learn to identify tree species and understand their biology and ecology.
How you will learn
You'll learn through a combination of classroom theory and practical activities. Throughout the year, you'll collect evidence of the skills you are developing to build a portfolio. Assessment is based on that portfolio of evidence, demonstrating your competence across the qualification. Classes are delivered full-time during the day at the Houghall Campus.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. East Durham College Houghall Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Tree surgeon. Carry out tree felling, pruning and maintenance work.
Arborist. Assess and care for trees in urban and rural settings.
Forestry worker. Support timber harvesting and woodland management.
Grounds maintenance operative. Maintain parks, estates and green spaces.
Woodland conservation worker. Protect and manage native woodland habitats.
Utility arborist. Clear trees and vegetation near power lines and infrastructure.
What you could study next
Level 3 Arboriculture Qualification. Deepen your technical knowledge and move toward supervisory roles in tree surgery and woodland management.
Level 3 Forestry and Woodland Management Qualification. Broaden into forestry planning, conservation, and land management.
Level 2 or 3 Countryside Management Qualification. A route into conservation, habitat management, and environmental work across the land-based sector.