College-Course: Level 2 Apprenticeship Arborist
Accredited by Lantra
Introduction
Writtle College are excited to be offering the new Arborist Apprenticeship Standard, which has been specifically designed by employers to meet the needs of industry and provide you with the skills and knowledge to succeed in your career.
Course highlights
- Recognise a range of tree and shrub species using common and scientific names
- Identify pests, diseases, disorders and tree defects
- Carry out a range of ground-based pruning operations
- Undertake aerial tree work and learn how to climb trees using a variety of methods
As an Arborist Apprentice you will need to be committed to learning both the practical and vital underpinning knowledge needed to work in this role. An arborist will undertake aerial tree work but will also undertake ground-based activities. Your work as an arborist involves diverse activities such as chainsaw work, aerial tree work, pruning, dismantling and using appropriate machinery such as brushwood chippers. To support this wide skills requirement, the Apprenticeship includes nine of the key Competency Certificates to building up your skills from chainsaw maintenance, to being able to safely carry out work on trees through climbing.
Tree work can be physically demanding and involves working outdoors in all weathers. As an apprentice you must adhere to safe working practices, carry out physical work and be prepared to work in all weather conditions. You will be required to have dedication and commitment to cope with the rigours of the role.
The course involves one day a week attendance at college , where you will work with your qualified, industry experienced lecturer. Then you will be with your employer for the remainder of the working week. Your lecturer will also visit you in the workplace approximately every 10 weeks to meet with you and your employer.
Key facts
An apprenticeship is a job with training, combining practical experience with vocational learning.
At least 20% of your contracted working hours will be classed as 'off-the-job'. This time will be dedicated to developing the knowledge and skills needed to meet the requirements of the apprenticeship, and therefore is not part of your usual work duties.
The off-the-job learning will be delivered through on-campus learning sessions and activities, and practical learning experiences in your usual work setting.
Examples of some of the topics you may cover (depending on pathway) are listed below.
Assessment
Topics include:
- Recognise health and safety needs onsite and work safely
- Take instruction from the job supervisor and other senior work colleagues to include signing onto the site specific risk assessment / emergency action plan and maintaining records.
- Process tree work arisings using appropriate machinery
- Recognise a range of tree and shrub species using common and scientific names
- Identify pests, diseases, disorders and tree defects
- Carry out a range of ground-based pruning operations
- Fell and process small trees
- Work safely at height in the tree under supervision
- Prepare sites for planting, plant trees and provide support, protection and aftercare
- The course includes the following competency certificates
- Level 3 award in emergency first aid at work
- Level 2 award in safe use of brushwood chipper
- Traffic Management (NRSWA Unit 002 Signing, Lighting and Guarding) OR Sector Scheme 12D
- Level 2 award in chainsaw maintenance
- Level 2 award in cross-cutting timber using a chainsaw
- Level 2 award in felling and processing trees up to 380mm
- Level 2 award in accessing a tree using a rope and harness
- Level 3 award in aerial tree rescue operations
- Level 3 award in aerial cutting of trees using free fall techniques
Accreditation
Accredited by Lantra
Lantra work with a wide range of employers and apprenticeship training providers to provide essential levels of support and quality independent assessment of End Point Assessments (EPA) across many apprenticeships in the land-based sector.
Entry requirements
In addition to any person specifications set out by your employer, these are the entry requirements for the course.
- Employment in a suitable role on a permanent contract exceeding 30 hours per week.
- Either Level 2 in Maths and English; or Level 1 in Maths and English and willingness to study at Level 2*.
- Employer support to undertake this course.
- Confirmed eligibility to be funded as an apprentice as set out within the ESFA’s Funding Rules.
- A completed Initial Needs Assessment Form.
You must be physically fit and happy to work outside in all weather conditions. You may need to travel long distances as a part of some jobs.
Apply now
How to apply
An apprentice needs to be in paid employment, so whilst you can apply for the apprenticeship before you find an employer, you’ll need to be employed before you can start the course.
Already employed?
If you are already employed in a suitable job role, you can apply directly by completing this application form.
To apply for an apprenticeship, you need to have the support of your employer. If you already have the support of your employer or have any questions before talking to them, please do not hesitate to contact one of our apprenticeship experts who will be happy to help.
Not employed?
Visit our Writtle Apprenticeship Vacancies page to see all our live vacancies and get tips on how to get an apprenticeship job.
For employers
If you have any questions or would like to discuss any aspect of this apprenticeship, then the Writtle College Apprenticeship Team are here to help. Get in touch today on the details above or take a look at our information for employers.
Current vacancies
Writtle Apprenticeship job vacancies
To be eligible to apply for one of our apprenticeships, you’ll first need to be in a full-time position with one of our partner employers. Browse current vacancies.