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Free Level 3 Forestry and Arboriculture Course in Ipswich – Suffolk New College Suffolk Rural

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start9 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyCity & Guilds awarding body
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About this course

Free Level 3 Forestry and Arboriculture Course in Ipswich. Classes run full-time at Suffolk New College Suffolk Rural. This two-year forestry and arboriculture qualification covers the practical and technical skills you need to work in forestry, arboriculture, and tree surgery. You'll need five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including English, Maths, and Science. A reasonable level of physical fitness is also required, as the course involves operating machinery and working at heights. The level 3 forestry and arboriculture classes are delivered during the day.

Who this course is for

Please see view the course at http://www.suffolk.ac.uk/courses

Entry requirements

5 GCSEs at Grade 4 (C) or above to include English, Maths and Science Due to the practical nature of the course a reasonable level of physical fitness is required to complete essential tasks, including the ability to operate machinery and work at heights.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop practical tree surgery skills, including climbing and aerial rescue techniques.
  • You'll learn how to identify and assess trees for health, disease, and structural risk.
  • You'll study forestry operations, including felling, extraction, and woodland management.
  • You'll gain skills in operating and maintaining forestry and arboriculture machinery safely.
  • You'll learn how to plan and carry out tree pruning and crown management work.
  • You'll study the ecology and biology of trees and woodland environments.
  • You'll develop an understanding of health and safety legislation relevant to forestry and arboriculture work.

How you will learn

Learning combines classroom sessions with practical, hands-on training outdoors. You'll be assessed through a mix of practical tasks, written assignments, and observations of your work in real forestry and arboriculture settings. Assessment is ongoing throughout the two years, covering both your technical skills and your underpinning knowledge of the subject.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Suffolk New College Suffolk Rural will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Tree surgeon, carrying out pruning, felling, and aerial work
  • Arborist, assessing and managing trees for councils or contractors
  • Forestry worker, supporting woodland management and harvesting operations
  • Woodland manager, overseeing the health and productivity of forest areas
  • Grounds maintenance operative, maintaining trees and green spaces
  • Utility arborist, managing trees near power lines and infrastructure
  • Conservation ranger, protecting and managing natural woodland habitats

What you could study next

A Level 3 NVQ in Arboriculture or Forestry can strengthen your practical credentials and support applications for industry cards such as the Arboricultural Association's Registered Arborist status. A Level 4 or higher qualification in Forestry Management or Countryside Management is worth considering if you want to move into supervisory or management roles. Some learners go on to study at degree level in Environmental Management or Forestry.

Apply on suffolk.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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