Forest craftsperson apprenticeship

Carry out the practical operations required to create, maintain and harvest forests and woodlands

The broad purpose of the forest craftsperson apprenticeship is to carry out the practical duties required to create, maintain and harvest forests and woodlands. You’ll specialise in either establishment and maintenance, or harvesting, but in both sub-sectors you would be expected to be aware of the full range of forestry operations, and to understand the commercial, environmental and social impacts of forestry. Establishment and maintenance operatives will carry out duties required to prepare the ground, plant trees and undertake ongoing maintenance, including weeding, beating up and pruning. Harvesting operatives are required to fell, process and extract trees and timber. Working in a job in this occupation you’ll be working in either established forests, woodlands or on open land. You’ll need to be able and willing to do practical work outdoors in all weathers. Forestry and woodland sites are often in remote locations and the ability to travel independently to access sites is advantageous. Day-to-day, you’ll be responsible for completing your own work to specification, with minimal supervision and to set deadlines, responsible for meeting quality requirements and working in accordance with legislation, environmental, health, safety and welfare considerations.

Duration: 24 months

Relevant school subjects: Geography, DT, PE

Entry requirements for the forest craftsperson apprenticeship: Depend on employer, but likely GCSEs or equivalent qualifications

Achievement upon completion: Level 3 (Advanced)—equivalent to A-levels

Potential salary upon completion: £23,000 per annum