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Planting Seeds: Term One Apprenticeships Update
As the new academic year is well underway, our new apprentices are setting out on the first stage of their learning journeys, while our returning apprentices are continuing to establish their skills, display their developed confidence and most will be preparing for upcoming assessments.
Over the coming term, our newbies will be building the foundations for their apprenticeship and laying the groundwork for their future in the industry. We want to thank all employers that have joined us for this journey – your mentorship, and support in the lead up and throughout the apprenticeship will be invaluable.
Arboriculture:
Training is now underway beginning with Chainsaw Safety and Maintenance, setting a strong foundation for the practical skills and practices they will develop this term.
Following their initial training, our first-year students will next be turning their attention to Tree Identification. This important module helps them build the foundational knowledge needed to recognise a wide variety of tree species — a vital skill for anyone working in arboriculture.
Eight of our second-year students will be preparing for their End Point Assessments., we’re proud of the hard work and dedication they’ve shown throughout their training and wish them every success as they take this next important step in their qualification journey. We’re delighted to share that one of our recently completed students, from the Kew Gardens Tree Gang, has been selected to attend the 11th International Oak Society Conference in Morelia and Oaxaca, Mexico. This prestigious event brings together oak enthusiasts, researchers, and professionals from around the world – an incredible achievement and experience!
Christ Gallifent – Skills Coach (Arboriculture)
Horticulture:
This term our new Horticulture Apprentices are being introduced to the plants they will be learning throughout the course. Although the apprentices who are new to plants often comment that they all look the same, it is like the people in their group – initially it is hard to put a face to a name, but as you get to know them, their individual stems, leaves, fruits and flowers, you don’t need to give it too much thought at all. We will also be studying the importance of understanding the soil we are working with and ways to get the best out of it for our plants.
The Year 2’s are now focusing on putting the underpinning knowledge from year one into practice in border design, planting and maintenance, and ornamental turf establishment and maintenance. There has been some really good feedback from the formal reviews this month about the change in apprentices after a year in the job and how many are using their initiative, showing an increase in confidence and contributing as a full-time team member rather than a trainee.
The last two Level 2 Horticulture Apprentices to go through, both achieved a very well-deserved distinction!
Joanna Sheperd – Skills Coach (Horticulture)
Land-Based Training:
Our Land based training Department are excited to launch the Formal Tree Assessment Course which provides essential training in the formal inspection and assessment of trees. This course replaces the former ITI Course, with refreshed content and standards. Learners will gain a deeper understanding of the biological and structural complexities of trees, improving their ability to conduct formal inspections, to make appropriate management recommendations or options, and to communicate findings effectively. The course supports career development in sectors like urban forestry, landscaping, and ecological consultancy as well as supporting arboriculture professionals, and highways personnel.
To register your interest click here
Mental Health Courses:
We are also looking to start offering a Mental Health in the Workplace Course. This entry-level course will provide a foundational understanding of mental health, helping to challenge common misconceptions and promote a supportive workplace culture.
It’s a great introduction for anyone looking to enhance their awareness of mental health, or to progress toward Level 2 and Level 3 qualifications.
- – Duration: Half a day
- – Prerequisites: None
- – Cost: £110.00 per candidate
- – Places Available: 12 per course
Find out more information, and book your place by emailing training@windsor-forest.ac.uk
First Aid Course:
Another course we would like to highlight is the First Aid at Work – Level 3 (FFAW), for which we have a date confirmed and it’s coming up soon, we encourage all to take a look and consider enrolling! The course provides a thorough understanding of workplace first aid, designed for businesses where a more comprehensive need for first aid is required (high-risk environments) such as construction and building sites, warehouses, engineering and heavy industries, etc.
- – Duration: 3 days
- – Prerequisites: None
- – Cost: £275.00 per candidate
- – Date: 19th-21st November 2025
- – Places Available: Limited (6 remaining)
Find out more information, and book your place by emailing training@windsor-forest.ac.uk
Lucy Rogers – Land-Based Training Coordinator
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ABOUT THE TOPICS MENTIONED, PLEASE VISIT THE APPRENTICESHIPS PAGE
