
Tree Surgeon Training
If you are looking to start or progress your career in arboriculture, our Tree Surgeon Training UK courses give you the skills, qualifications, and confidence to work safely with trees. Delivered by experienced instructors in real woodland environments, our NPTC City & Guilds certified training is the recognised standard for professional tree surgeons across the UK.
Why choose tree surgeon training?
Tree surgery is a skilled career that combines practical outdoor work with health and safety responsibility. Employers, councils, and contractors require formal certification, and NPTC training ensures you meet the UK’s legal and insurance requirements.
By completing tree surgeon training, you will learn:
- Safe chainsaw use and maintenance
- Tree felling and processing techniques
- Climbing systems, knots, and aerial rescue
- Canopy chainsaw operation from rope and harness
- Wood chipper operation and ground crew skills
- Risk assessment, PPE, and compliance with HSE standards
Tree surgeon training courses
We provide a full pathway from beginner to advanced tree surgery qualifications:
All courses include practical assessments, and successful candidates achieve NPTC City & Guilds certification recognised across the UK.
Refresher training and CPD
Tree surgeon training does not end with your first qualification. HSE guidance recommends refresher training every 3–5 years, or sooner if you use equipment infrequently.
We offer:
- Refresher training for CS30, CS31, CS38 and CS39
- CPD in aerial pruning, rigging, and advanced climbing
- Group training packages for employers and contractors
Careers with tree surgeon training
Completing tree surgeon training in the UK opens the door to a wide range of careers:
- Professional climbing arborist
- Forestry and woodland management
- Arboricultural officer roles with councils
- Grounds maintenance and estate management
- Consultancy and surveying in arboriculture
With further experience, you can progress into supervisory roles, specialist contracts, or even training and assessment.
Entry requirements
Most ground-based courses are open to beginners. Climbing courses require a good level of fitness and suitable PPE. Trainees must provide protective trousers, gloves, boots, and a helmet meeting HSE standards. Climbing equipment can be hired for aerial courses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need qualifications to work as a tree surgeon?
 Yes. In the UK, most employers require NPTC City & Guilds qualifications for insurance and compliance.
How long does tree surgeon training take?
Entry-level chainsaw courses last 2–5 days. Climbing and aerial rescue takes around 5 days, and canopy saw use adds a further 2–3 days.
Where can I train as a tree surgeon?
We deliver tree surgeon training in Lancashire, with easy access for learners across the North West and the wider UK.
How often should I refresh my training?
Every 3–5 years, or sooner if required by your employer or insurance policy.
Is tree surgeon training suitable for beginners?
Yes. Many trainees start with no previous experience and progress step by step through the NPTC qualifications.
Start your tree surgeon training
Take the first step towards a safe and rewarding arborist career with accredited Tree Surgeon Training UK.
