From chainsaw operation and tree felling to aerial rescue and tree inspection, arboriculture and forestry work requires a broad range of practical skills, and the right training to carry them out safely and competently.

Whether you are beginning a career in arboriculture, developing existing skills or arranging training for a team, choosing the right course will depend on the type of work being undertaken, existing experience and the equipment involved.

At KNW Training, we deliver arboriculture, forestry and chainsaw training for individuals and organisations across the UK. Here are 10 of the most popular types of training within the sector.

1. Chainsaw Maintenance and Cross-Cutting

For many people, this is the starting point for professional chainsaw training.

The course develops the essential knowledge and practical skills required to maintain a chainsaw and carry out cross-cutting operations safely and effectively. It also provides an important foundation for those looking to progress to tree felling and more advanced chainsaw qualifications.

Ideal for: New chainsaw operators, forestry workers, grounds teams, estate staff and those progressing into arboriculture.

2. Felling and Processing Trees up to 380mm

Once the fundamental skills of chainsaw maintenance and cross-cutting have been established, tree felling is a common next step.

Training covers the techniques required to safely fell and process smaller trees, including planning the operation, assessing hazards and selecting appropriate felling methods.

This is a key course for those working in forestry, arboriculture, woodland management, estates and other land-based environments.

3. Felling and Processing Trees over 380mm

Working with larger trees introduces additional complexity and requires more advanced skills.

Training for felling trees over 380mm is aimed at experienced chainsaw operators who need to develop the techniques required to plan and undertake larger tree-felling operations safely and efficiently.

It is particularly relevant to professional forestry and arboriculture teams carrying out more demanding tree work.

4. Tree Climbing and Aerial Rescue

Working safely within a tree canopy requires specialist climbing skills, but equally important is knowing how to respond if something goes wrong.

Tree climbing and aerial rescue training develops practical climbing, positioning and rescue techniques for arborists working at height.

Aerial rescue capability is an essential consideration for organisations undertaking climbing operations, helping ensure that teams are prepared to respond effectively in an emergency.

5. Aerial Cutting of Trees Using a Chainsaw

For arborists progressing from climbing into aerial chainsaw work, specialist training is essential.

This type of course develops the skills required to use a chainsaw safely from a rope and harness while working within the tree canopy.

It represents an important progression point for professional arborists who need to undertake aerial pruning and cutting operations.

6. Basic Tree Survey and Inspection

Not everyone responsible for trees needs to be a professional arborist.

Basic tree survey and inspection training is designed to help those responsible for trees recognise common hazards, identify obvious defects and understand when further specialist assessment may be required.

It can be particularly valuable for:

• Estate and facilities managers
• Grounds maintenance teams
• Local authorities
• Schools and colleges
• Parks and leisure facilities
• Golf courses
• Housing and property teams
• Landowners

For organisations responsible for managing trees across sites or estates, developing this knowledge can form an important part of a wider tree management and safety programme.

7. Stump Grinder Operations

Stump grinders are powerful pieces of machinery and require operators to understand both the equipment and the hazards associated with their use.

Stump grinder training covers safe preparation, operation and routine maintenance, as well as considerations such as site assessment and working around underground or nearby services.

The course is particularly relevant to arborists, tree surgery teams, grounds contractors and estate maintenance teams.

8. Pole Saw and Powered Pole Pruner Operations

Pole saws and powered pole pruners allow certain pruning operations to be undertaken from ground level, but their extended reach introduces its own risks and operating considerations.

Training helps operators develop safe working techniques while understanding equipment checks, maintenance, positioning and appropriate cutting methods.

These skills are useful across arboriculture, forestry, grounds maintenance, estate management and vegetation management.

9. Wood Chipper Operations

Wood chippers are widely used throughout professional tree work, making appropriate operator training an important consideration for arboriculture and forestry teams.

Training typically covers pre-use checks, safe feeding techniques, machine operation, maintenance and the management of hazards around the working area.

Wood chipper training can benefit arborists, forestry workers, grounds teams, contractors, local authorities and organisations carrying out vegetation management.

10. MEWP Operations for Arboriculture and Tree Work

Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) are increasingly used within arboriculture to provide access for certain types of tree work.

They may be used where climbing is impractical, where tree condition makes traditional access unsuitable, or where a MEWP provides a more appropriate working method.

Operators need to understand not only how to use the equipment safely, but also the additional considerations involved when using a MEWP for arboricultural operations.

Which Arboriculture or Forestry Course Do I Need?

The right training route depends on the work you need to undertake and your existing qualifications and experience.

Someone new to professional chainsaw use may begin with chainsaw maintenance and cross-cutting before progressing into tree felling. Those developing a career in professional arboriculture may then move into climbing, aerial rescue and aerial chainsaw operations.

Other courses – including tree inspection, stump grinding, wood chipping, pole saw operation and MEWPs – allow individuals and teams to build the additional competencies required for their particular roles.

For employers, training requirements may also vary depending on the activities undertaken, equipment used and responsibilities of individual team members.

Arboriculture, Forestry & Chainsaw Training Across the UK

KNW Training provides a wide range of arboriculture, forestry and chainsaw training for organisations and individuals across the UK.

With almost 30 years’ experience delivering specialist training, we work with clients across the arboriculture, forestry, utilities, environmental, land-based and public sectors.

Whether you need a single course for an individual, training for an operational team or support planning a wider programme of competency-based training, our team can help identify the most appropriate options.

Looking for arboriculture or forestry training?

Explore our full range of Arboriculture & Forestry courses or contact the KNW Training team to discuss your requirements.