Arboriculture Courses
Arboriculture is the management, care, and study of trees. For those looking to build a career in this field, arboriculture courses provide the training, knowledge, and certification required to work safely and professionally.
Across the UK, there are many routes into arboriculture. From formal college qualifications to short professional tickets, the right training depends on your goals, experience, and the type of work you want to carry out.
Types of arboriculture courses
Arboriculture training is broad, covering both theory and practical skills:
Academic qualifications
including Level 2 and Level 3 Diplomas in Arboriculture, foundation degrees, and higher education routes into consultancy and management.
Apprenticeships
combining on-the-job training with college study for those starting their career in arboriculture.
Professional short courses
industry-recognised qualifications focusing on practical skills such as chainsaw use, aerial rescue, or machinery operation.
CPD and refresher training
keeping experienced arborists compliant with HSE requirements and updated on best practice.
Why professional training matters
Tree work is one of the most high-risk land-based industries in the UK. The Health & Safety Executive (HSE) requires workers to hold relevant qualifications to operate chainsaws, climb trees, and carry out felling or aerial work. Employers, councils, and contractors will not hire or insure staff without the correct certifications.
Professional arboriculture courses ensure:
- Safe working practices in line with UK law
- Competence in handling dangerous equipment
- Skills for progression into specialist or senior roles
- Recognition by NPTC City & Guilds, the gold standard for arborists
Arboriculture courses at Great Oaks
At Great Oaks Tree Services & Training Academy, we specialise in NPTC / City & Guilds arboriculture courses designed for tree surgeons, grounds staff, and aspiring climbing arborists. Our courses are delivered in real woodland environments around Preston and the North West, by experienced instructors with decades in the industry.
Our arboriculture courses include:
South East England
2 tickets remaining
South East England
5 tickets remaining
South East England
1 ticket remaining
Every course includes practical assessment, and successful candidates achieve formal certification recognised across the UK.
Refresher and CPD options
We also provide refresher training to keep qualifications current, as well as CPD opportunities in:
- Advanced climbing and aerial pruning
- Rigging and dismantling techniques
- Machinery and equipment handling
- Safety updates in line with HSE recommendations
Careers in arboriculture
Completing arboriculture courses opens career paths such as:
- Tree surgeon / climbing arborist
- Forestry worker
- Grounds maintenance operative
- Arboricultural officer for councils or estates
- Consultant or surveyor with further study
With experience, many arborists progress into supervisory roles, contract management, or specialist consultancy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications do I need to become a tree surgeon?
You’ll need at least CS30 and CS31 to begin, followed by CS38 and CS39 if you plan to work at height.
Can beginners take arboriculture courses?
Yes. Many of our courses are open to those with no prior experience, though climbing courses require a good level of fitness and PPE.
Are arboriculture courses only practical?
No. While our focus is on NPTC practical tickets, wider arboriculture training also includes academic study for those moving into surveying and consultancy.
Do qualifications need refreshing?
Yes. HSE recommends refresher training every 3–5 years.
Start your arboriculture training
Whether you’re beginning your journey in tree work or building on years of experience, our arboriculture courses provide the skills, confidence, and certification you need.