Arboriculture

Course summary

Principles of Health and Safety You will be able to understand common health and safety practices and processes which they will encounter within the workplace. The land-based sector has one of the worst fatal accident records of any major industrial sector and a lack of basic training and/or competency is often a contributory factor. There is a need for new entrants to these industries to gain essential health and safety knowledge in order to minimise harm to themselves and to improve attitudes and behaviour in the workplace. In addition, you will have the opportunity to consider factors which are specific to your chosen industry, Arboriculture. Undertake and Review Work Related Experience in the Land based Industries The aim of this unit is to give you the skills needed to identify, participate in and review work experience in the arboriculture industry. You will be taught the relevant skills such as CV creation; where to seek and apply for jobs within the arboriculture industry; how to prepare for interview and secure a placement; undertake a period of suitable work experience and report back upon the time in industry. Land based Industry Machinery Operations You will study the purpose and operation of land based machines including machine operating and working principles. You will explore routine maintenance and appropriate Personal Protective Equipment. You will also develop knowledge of the legal requirements and industry best practice guidance for land based machinery. You will learn how to safely operate and maintain machinery and consider the different conditions in which machinery might operate. Plant and Soil Science You will be able to develop an understanding of soil characteristics and their relationship to crop growth and development. You will investigate how plants grow and develop, through a knowledge of their structure and physiology. In addition, you will have the opportunity to consider factors which influence production of commercial crops and other plants, which provides a basis for plant and soil management techniques. Undertake Estate Skills The purpose of this unit is to introduce you to common estate skills and knowledge and how these can be applied in practice. You will look at constructing, repairing and maintaining boundaries, structures and surfaces. You will build your experience and confidence in developing practical skills in a range of situations. You will be able to contextualise practical management work to a particular habitat that lies within arboriculture. Principles of Tree Felling and Chainsaw Use The purpose of this unit is to provide you with an understanding of the principles of chainsaw maintenance, felling small trees (200- 300mm at felling height) and stump removal and how these can be applied in practice. You will identify and understand a range of petrol-driven chainsaws and felling techniques currently used within the industry, to develop efficient chainsaw maintenance skills and to carry out basic repairs and troubleshooting. Principles and Identification of Pests, Diseases and Disorders of Trees You will develop a broad perspective of tree pathology and understand the range of common biotic pathogens and abiotic disorders. The signs and symptoms of common biotic pathogens and abiotic disorders will be described and the life cycles of biotic pathogens will be examined. In addition, you will evaluate appropriate monitoring, prevention and control measures for common biotic pathogens. Support Arboriculture Operations from the Ground The purpose of this unit is to provide you with the knowledge and skills to support arboricultural operations. Responsibility for work site management and organisation will be a central part of this unit. You will support arboricultural operations from the ground, select and assist climbers in the use of appropriate equipment to undertake a range of preventative and remedial operations. In addition, you will support advanced climbing operations and control cut sections with rigging equipment. Principles of Amenity or Forestry Establishment The purpose of this unit is to provide you with an understanding of tree and shrub establishment and protection and how these can be put into practice. You will understand the importance to society and the environment of tree establishment. The objectives of tree establishment, possible financial support and legal considerations will also be examined. You will also develop their understanding of the limitations of common establishment and protection methods and be able to develop their practical skills to establish and protect either amenity or forest trees. Tree Surveys and Inspections The purpose of this unit is to provide you with an understanding of the principles of woodland management and how these can be applied in practice. It is key that you gain an understanding of how woodlands are designed and managed based on recommendations from data collected.