Arborist Apprentice

GRISTWOOD AND TOMS LIMITED; Radlett; On-site; GBP 12,000 - 18,000; Part time

Job summary

Gristwood & Toms Limited is offering an Apprentice Arborist position designed to train you in urban tree care. You will learn to operate arborist tools, assist with pruning and removal, and gain hands-on experience under experienced professionals.

This apprenticeship runs for about 1 year 6 months, with training through Windsor Forest Colleges Group, and aims for possible permanent employment on completion.

Qualifications

• Essential GCSE English and Maths at grade 4/C or higher.
• Willingness to learn and develop practical arborist skills on the job.

Responsibilities

• Learn to safely operate and maintain arborist tools and equipment (e.g. chainsaws, chippers)
• Assist with tree pruning, felling, and removal under supervision
• Participate in tree planting and aftercare
• Support senior arborists and team members as needed
• Work at height using ropes, harnesses, and climbing techniques
• Follow health & safety procedures and industry best practices
• Attend training sessions and complete coursework, as required by the apprenticeship

Skills

Communication

Teamwork

Physical fitness

Outdoor work

Reliability

Punctuality

Eagerness to learn

Numeracy & literacy

Education

GCSE English & Maths

Job description

Introduction

As an Apprentice Arborist, you will learn how to manage and maintain trees in urban environments, working as part of a professional arboriculture team. This role is ideal for someone that is passionate about nature, physical outdoor work, and developing a career in tree management.

About the Employer

Gristwood & Toms is one of the UK's leading arboricultural (tree care) specialists, providing nationwide tree management, consultancy, surveying, planting, and maintenance services for local authorities, commercial organisations, schools, the NHS, and private clients. Founded in 1974, it is now part of the Nurture Group while continuing to operate under its own brand. We offer a complete \"one-stop-shop\" for everything tree-related—from tree surgery and inspections to planning advice, pest management, and subsidence investigations. With over 50 years of experience, we are one of the largest dedicated arboricultural contractors in the UK, delivering services nationwide.

What You'll Do

• Learn to safely operate and maintain arborist tools and equipment (e.g. chainsaws, chippers)


• Assist with tree pruning, felling, and removal under supervision


• Participate in tree planting and aftercare


• Support senior arborists and team members as needed


• Work at height using ropes, harnesses, and climbing techniques


• Follow health & safety procedures and industry best practices


• Attend training sessions and complete coursework, as required by the apprenticeship

Training Outcome

• Possible permanent employment

Skills Required

• Communication skills


• Team working


• Physical fitness


• Willingness to work outdoors


• Reliable


• Punctual


• Eager to learn


• Basic numeracy and literacy

Qualifications

• Essential - GCSE - English and Maths - 4/C or higher

Course Information

Course: Arborist (level 2)

Level: 2

Route: Agriculture, environmental and animal care

Apprenticeship Level: Intermediate

Working Arrangements

Working Week: Monday to Friday7am to 4pm

Expected Duration: 1 Year 6 Months

Number of Positions Available: 4

Training Provider: THE WINDSOR FOREST COLLEGES GROUP