Overview
Tree surgeons cut and shape trees. This makes the trees look good and helps them to grow well. Then they use a chainsaw to cut off any dangerous parts. Sometimes they cut down whole trees. Tree surgeons often climb into the trees to do their work. They use ropes and safety equipment to stop them from falling.
Activities
- Cutting branches off trees
- Cutting down trees
- Climbing up into trees
- Using chainsaws
- Planning their work carefully with safety in mind
Organisation
Tree surgeons work for employers across The Black Country like Tree surgery companies, Local councils and Charities. Many tree surgeons are self-employed and do freelance work.
Workplace
Tree surgeons are outdoors in all weathers.
Working Hours
There are no standard working hours as it depends on the job. Most employed tree surgeons work between 35 and 40 hours per week. Those who are self-employed might do more or less than this depending on the needs of their clients.
Salary and Employment Trends
Starting salary – £16,000.
Qualifications
You don’t always have to pass level 2 qualifications at school to become a tree surgeon it will depend of the employer. A good general education will help you to compete for a jobs or apprenticeships. For some courses you will need GCSEs or equivalent qualifications, particularly maths and English. The majority of people employed in this role will hold an intermediate apprenticeship or GCSEs at grades 9-4 (A-C).
You could also apply for an apprenticeship. If you have an EHCP you may be able to apply under the Dfe exemption which allows the apprentice to use Entry level 3 English and Maths qualifications.
The apprentice would have to be competent enough to successfully achieve all other aspects of the apprenticeship requirements, become occupationally competent and achieve Entry Level 3 in English and Maths before the end of their apprenticeship.