How to become a Tree Surgeon

Tree surgeons share a lot of similarities with their medical namesakes. Both professions require precision and an expert level of training, and both jobs are not without their risks. That being said, a career in Arboriculture offers a consistent stream of work all year round with the outdoors as your office, so why not consider a life as a tree surgeon?

According to UCAS, academic qualifications are not essential for tree surgeons. There are a number of entry routes into a career as a tree surgeon, including apprenticeship schemes and college courses. As tree surgery is a relatively niche area of work, there is also the option of training in another profession first, such as a gardener or grounds worker.

The main criteria for becoming a tree surgeon revolves around physical fitness. Working at height requires the ability to climb and to do so safely, all while manoeuvring heavy power tools such as chainsaws. This is a very practical and hands-on job, so a degree of previous climbing experience would benefit your chances of succeeding in this role.

It must also be noted that there are strict safety procedures in place when working at height. Particularly in tricky conditions, it is important to understand the specific safety procedures for each and every job. This is where a college course can be beneficial. As well as learning the ins and outs of the role, you will also learn the theoretical side of the job, making you aware of all the potential dangers that the job offers and teaching you how to overcome any obstacle safely and efficiently.

Some specialist colleges offer level 2 and level 3 courses in arboriculture, allowing you to fine-tune your skills and giving you a better chance of progressing through the beginning stages of this role quickly.

If you are keen to get out into the field, you can sign up to an apprenticeship scheme or try and shadow an experienced tree surgeon and learn on site. Although you will not learn the theoretical side of the role, you will be taught first hand by someone who understands the role, offering you a more practical way of learning.

Whichever route you take, you can expect a fruitful career which offers a lot of benefits and a clear route of career progression ahead. If you are in need of any tree surgery work and are in the area of Leeds, Bradford, Wakefield and Harrogate, contact Treesaw on 0113 239 1271 and we will try and get a member of our team out to you as soon as possible.