Arborist
Level 2 · IntermediateAgriculture, environmental and animal care 1.5 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
An arborist carries out practical tree care and maintenance operations safely, including pruning, felling, stump grinding, and aerial climbing to keep trees healthy and environments safe. Apprentices learn to operate chainsaws, use climbing equipment, and follow industry safety standards under the supervision of experienced arboriculturists. This role is the entry point for a career in arboriculture, with progression to arboriculturist or tree surgery supervisor.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Safe use and maintenance of chainsaws on the ground and at height
Basic tree identification and understanding tree structure and biology
Rope-based tree climbing and aerial rescue techniques
Pruning methods and their effects on tree health
Safe felling and sectional dismantling of trees
Ground-based machinery operation including chippers and stump grinders
Health and safety legislation and working at height regulations
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Carry out pruning operations from the ground and from the canopy
Fell trees safely using approved cutting techniques
Climb trees using rope and harness systems to access the canopy
Operate wood chippers and stump grinding machines on site
Clear and chip brash and timber following tree works
Set up safe working zones and signage around tree operations
Maintain and sharpen chainsaws and other cutting equipment
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 2 (Intermediate) - roughly GCSE level. Often open with few or no formal qualifications - a strong first step. Some employers ask for a couple of GCSEs.
What’s next: Typically leads on to a Level 3 (Advanced) apprenticeship.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
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