Woodland Skills SCQF Level 5

What is special about this course?

This course is a natural progression from the Introduction to the Woodland Environment course giving candidates more hands-on practical experience and broadening knowledge opportunities linked with small and large machine use and additional practical skills in preparation for working as an employee/contractor/sub-contractor in the forestry and related industry.

There will be an opportunity for candidates to achieve industry recognised certification in a number of practical activities enhancing employability.

This course will also give a good practical grounding for those wishing to progress on to the Higher Educational forestry courses who have no industry practical experience. This will further enhance their employability at a higher level as well as supplement their finances whilst studying full time.

• Very practical hands on delivery and assessment approach.
• Some classroom based delivery.
• Gives the learner a broad understanding of the rural environment and related activities.
• Experienced staff.
• Fantastic learning environment at the Scottish School of Forestry; based in its own woodland.
• Informative trips and visits.

Entry requirements

• 2 National 4s. Required Subjects: Maths, English, Biology, Geography
• An interest in the rural environment and willingness to learn new techniques and skills
• Successful completion of the previous Conservation and the Rural Environment Course.

Alternative Routes/ Experience:

• Basic practical experience in a rural setting.
• Volunteer in conservation/community woodland projects/rural after-school clubs.

Units may include:

• Planning basic operations following correct H&S protocols
• Intermediate tree and plant identification
• Machinery maintenance and operation: ATV, Quads and Tractors
• Chainsaw Maintenance and Crosscutting
• Felling trees up to 380mm
• Establishment operations
• Woodland maintenance operations
• Forestry related studies

Equipment

• There will be a requirement for Personal Protective Equipment to ensure candidates are able to undergo the relevant training, ensuring best industry practices are observed.
• Reference/resource materials will be required for successful completion of some of the units.

Fees

For the latest information on fees please see our fees policy.

Funding

• There will be a requirement for Personal Protective Equipment to ensure candidates are able to undergo the relevant training, ensuring best industry practices are observed.
• Reference/resource materials will be required for successful completion of some of the units.