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Level 3 BTEC Forestry and Arboriculture Course in Budleigh Salterton

Cost£4,425.00
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body
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About this course

Level 3 BTEC Forestry and Arboriculture Course in Budleigh Salterton. Classes run at Bicton College, full-time during the day.

The course covers both practical skills and the science behind them. You'll train in chainsaw work, tree felling, and climbing techniques. You'll also study tree biology, pests, and diseases. The course takes one year to complete.

You'll finish with a Pearson Edexcel BTEC National Foundation Diploma in Forestry and Arboriculture.

Who this course is for

This course is ideal if you want an outdoor career working with trees and woodland environments. You’ll learn both how to do the work and why it is done that way with a strong balance of practical skill and underpinning science. Training includes chainsaw work tree felling and climbing techniques alongside learning about tree biology pests and diseases. It’s a strong foundation if you want to start work in arboriculture or progress to higher level land based study.

Entry requirements

Entry requirements for external applicants and school leavers • Four or more GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including English and/or Maths, or successful completion of a relevant Level 2 qualification and a grade 4 or above in English and/or Maths. • Functional Skills Level 2 in English and/or maths will be considered as alternatives to GCSE, but a GCSE resit may be required depending on grade. Entry requirements for existing learners with the Cornwall College Group • Successful completion of

What you will learn

  • You'll develop chainsaw operation and tree felling techniques.
  • You'll learn tree climbing methods used in professional arboriculture.
  • You'll study tree biology, including how trees grow and function.
  • You'll identify common tree pests and diseases.
  • You'll understand woodland management and forestry practices.
  • You'll build the practical skills needed to work safely outdoors.

How you will learn

You'll learn through a mix of classroom sessions and hands-on practical work. Assessment includes assignments, practical tasks, and unit-based coursework. You'll be assessed on both your technical skills and your understanding of the underpinning science.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Bicton College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Forestry worker, carries out tree planting, felling, and woodland maintenance.
  • Arborist, inspects and cares for trees in urban and rural settings.
  • Tree surgeon, prunes, fells, and manages trees for safety and health.
  • Grounds maintenance operative, maintains parks, estates, and green spaces.
  • Woodland conservation worker, supports habitat management and biodiversity projects.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Arboriculture, a work-based qualification that supports professional development in tree surgery.
  • Higher National Certificate in Forestry or Land Management, for those looking to move into supervisory or technical roles.
  • Degree-level study in Arboriculture, Forestry, or Environmental Management, for a route into research or management.
Apply on cornwall.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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