Arboriculture at Pershore College
Building Future Arborists: Training and Opportunities at Pershore College
Nestled in the heart of Worcestershire, Pershore College, powered by WCG (Warwickshire College Group), has established itself as a leader in Arboriculture training. As a key part of WCG, Pershore College offers a specialised pathway for students passionate about working with trees, creating future-ready arborists who are equipped with the essential skills to excel in the industry. Whether you’re starting your career or looking to transition into arboriculture, Pershore College is the perfect place to lay the foundation for a rewarding career.
Why Pershore College is a Leader in Arboriculture Training
With a strong reputation in the field, Pershore College stands out as one of the premier institutions for Arboriculture education. The college is listed in the ArbJobs breakdown of top English colleges for Arboriculture training, a testament to the quality of education and practical training it provides. Pershore’s Arboriculture department is fully equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, experienced instructors, and close industry ties, which help ensure that students are not only learning theory but also gaining hands-on experience that’s crucial for success.
At Pershore College, students aren’t just studying trees - they are immersed in a dynamic, industry-oriented environment. The college's commitment to offering high-quality training and real-world experience makes it the top choice for anyone looking to make a career in arboriculture. With the support of WCG, the college continues to expand its Arboriculture offerings, ensuring that the next generation of arborists is prepared for the evolving demands of the industry.
A Comprehensive Education in Arboriculture
One of the standout features of Pershore College’s Arboriculture program is its ability to blend practical learning with academic instruction. The curriculum is designed to meet the specific needs of the Arboriculture industry, ensuring that students graduate with the skills required to thrive in the field. Courses are crafted by experienced industry professionals to ensure they align with the latest industry standards and trends.
At Pershore College, students can begin their journey in Arboriculture with the Level 2 Arborist Apprenticeship. This apprenticeship offers an exceptional balance of practical skills and theoretical knowledge, including topics such as tree identification, the benefits of trees, tree pests and diseases, and tree surgery. This qualification, which is continuously refined by industry professionals, ensures that students develop the necessary expertise to work effectively in a range of Arboriculture settings.
The Level 2 Arborist Apprenticeship provides students with a rich curriculum that includes essential technical qualifications such as the Level 2 Award in Emergency First Aid at Work, the Level 2 Award in Safe Use of Brushwood Chipper, and the Level 2 Award in Chainsaw Maintenance. Students also gain expertise in tree climbing, using ropes and harnesses, aerial tree rescue operations, and much more. All this is complemented by a supportive learning environment, where students benefit from individual and group support to ensure they are fully prepared for the workforce.
In addition to apprenticeships, Pershore College is expanding its course offerings to include technical short courses in areas such as chainsaw maintenance, tree felling, and tree climbing, and safe use of saw from rope and harness which are aimed at both industry newcomers and professionals seeking to expand their skill sets. These short courses, designed to provide certification in key areas of tree surgery and Arboriculture, ensure that Pershore College remains a key player in meeting the evolving needs of the industry.
State-of-the-Art Facilities for Hands-On Learning
Pershore College’s Arboriculture department is equipped with a range of state-of-the-art facilities designed to foster hands-on learning and real-world application. With access to 30 acres of woodland, ancient trees, and meticulously maintained gardens, students have the unique opportunity to practice their craft in an inspiring and natural environment. The college is also home to an Arboretum, which provides a rich resource for students to study tree species and learn about tree biology in a practical setting.
The college’s workshops are fully equipped with the latest arboricultural equipment, including chainsaws, chippers, climbing gear, and ropes. These modern tools ensure that students have the resources they need to develop their technical skills to the highest standard. The learning spaces are designed to foster interactive teaching, with interactive whiteboards, a success wall to celebrate student achievements, and a mini-library dedicated to Arboriculture, ensuring students have the support they need both in and out of the classroom.
Moreover, the college features specialised facilities like the AgriTech building, where students can explore cutting-edge technologies such as hydroponics and indoor vertical farming. These technologies play a crucial role in developing a comprehensive understanding of plant care, which is essential for those working in Arboriculture. By combining the latest in agricultural and arboricultural technology, Pershore College prepares students for the future of the industry.
Industry Connections and Real-World Experience
One of the key factors that set Pershore College apart from other institutions is its strong ties to the Arboriculture industry. The college maintains close relationships with various estates, community woodlands, and industry projects, offering students invaluable real-world experience. This connection to the industry ensures that the curriculum is always up to date and relevant to the demands of the workforce. Moreover, students gain access to a wide network of professionals who can help guide their careers once they graduate.
The college's industry links also extend to opportunities for students to build their resumes, and connect with professionals in the Arboriculture field.
Testimonials: Real Success Stories from Pershore College
At Pershore College, student success is at the heart of everything they do. Testimonials from students highlight how the college's supportive environment, expert instructors, and hands-on approach to learning have made a lasting impact on their careers.
George, a recent graduate, shares his experience, saying, “I studied Level 2 Arboriculture at Pershore College and gained a wealth of knowledge, both practical and theoretical. The small classes and personalised approach to learning meant I could focus on the areas I needed to improve. I learned everything from chainsaw maintenance to using a chainsaw from a rope and harness. Thanks to my time at Pershore, I moved from being a groundsman to a Quotations and Estimations Manager at a large London-based company. The knowledge and skills I gained from my apprenticeship helped me land this role, and I couldn’t be more grateful.”
Esme, another student, talks about her journey, saying, “Since starting my apprenticeship at Pershore College, I’ve learned so much. The balance of practical and theory lessons made the course engaging, and I always felt supported by my instructors. As a woman in the industry, I initially felt nervous, but the team at Pershore encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone. I’m now much more confident in my work, and I recommend Pershore College to anyone interested in Arboriculture, especially women in the industry.”
Max, a student who is currently on the apprenticeship, also emphasises the hands-on learning approach, stating, “Pershore College offers great practical teaching. From chainsaw maintenance to tree climbing, the course has a solid balance of theory and practical work. Each week I walked away with a certificate, which kept me motivated. The instructors are approachable, and their knowledge of Arboriculture is second to none. If you’re thinking about pursuing a career in Arboriculture, Pershore College is the place to be.”
Why Choose Pershore College?
There are many reasons why students choose Pershore College for their Arboriculture training. Some of the standout benefits include:
- State-of-the-art facilities that mirror real-world Arboriculture environments.
- Expert instructors with over 50 years of combined industry experience, who are actively involved in Arboriculture practice.
- Strong industry connections that provide students with opportunities for real-world learning and job placements.
- A supportive, student-centered approach that ensures each student is equipped for long-term success.
- Comprehensive training that covers both technical and soft skills needed in Arboriculture.
Additionally, the beautiful campus is set in the picturesque Worcestershire countryside, offering students the chance to learn in a tranquil and inspiring environment. The college's on-site commercial nursery and garden center also provide a unique learning experience, where students can apply their knowledge in a real-world retail setting, gaining experience in plant care, propagation, and customer service.
How to Get Started
If you're ready to take the next step toward a rewarding career in Arboriculture, Pershore College is here to support you. Whether you’re interested in the Level 2 Arborist Apprenticeship or looking to explore short courses in chainsaw maintenance or tree felling, Pershore College has the training and expertise you need to succeed.
For more information on the Arboriculture program, or to enrol, visit the Pershore College website or get in touch with the Arboriculture department directly. You can also reach out to John Hancock or Andy Jones, the trainers and assessors at Pershore College, for any questions or inquiries.
Start your journey at Pershore College, where future arborists are made!
