Arborist Apprentice – Level 2

Central YMCA Group; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 32,000 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Travel subsidy

Apprenticeship training

Job summary

Tom Boswell Tree Services Ltd is seeking an Apprentice Arborist to join our outdoor team in West London. You will learn practical arboriculture skills on real jobs while working towards the Level 2 Arborist Apprenticeship, with supervision from experienced tree surgeons.

We value a positive attitude, hard work, and enthusiasm for the outdoors. Earn while you learn, with a starting salary from £35,000 per year and a monthly travel subsidy of up to £25.

Qualifications

• No previous experience required; attitude and enthusiasm to learn matter most.
• Be comfortable with outdoor, physical work and varied weather conditions.
• Willing to travel to West London for early starts and apprenticeship training.

Responsibilities

• Support qualified arborists during tree surgery operations.
• Assist with tree maintenance, stump grinding and related tasks.
• Learn to operate and care for specialist tools and equipment.
• Carry out routine vehicle and equipment safety checks.

Skills

Outdoor enthusiasm

Team player

Willing to learn

Hardworking

Education

GCSE Maths and English

Job description

Tom Boswell Tree Services Ltd At a glance

• Salary: £18200 / year
• Address: The Yard, Alwyn Gardens W3 0JH
• Start date: 2026-11-23
• Closing date: 2026-11-03

Kickstart your career as an Arborist with Tom Boswell Trees! Join a friendly, supportive team, gain hands-on experience and recognised qualifications, with excellent career progression into experienced roles earning from £35,000 per year. Enjoy ongoing development and a travel subsidy of up to £25 per month.

Summary

Looking for an outdoor career with real opportunities to progress?

At Tom Boswell Trees, we're passionate about caring for trees and green spaces for future generations. We're a forward-thinking company that values its people, encourages development and takes pride in delivering high-quality work.

We're looking for an enthusiastic Apprentice Arborist to join our friendly, experienced team and develop the skills needed for a rewarding career in tree surgery.

Why join Tom Boswell Trees?

• Excellent career progression – develop your skills and work towards qualified arborist roles, with salaries starting from £35,000 per year.
• Earn while you learn – gain valuable practical experience alongside your Level 2 Arborist Apprenticeship.
• Supportive team environment – work alongside experienced professionals who will help you learn, grow and build your confidence.
• Travel support – receive a travel subsidy of up to £25 per month.
• Varied outdoor work – no two days are the same!
• Long-term career opportunities – develop specialist skills and explore progression within the company.

What will you be doing?

• As an Apprentice Arborist, you'll work alongside experienced tree surgeons, learning the practical skills and knowledge needed to carry out professional tree care safely and effectively.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Supporting qualified arborists and climbers during tree surgery operations.
• Assisting with tree maintenance, stump grinding and other arboricultural activities.
• Learning how to use, maintain and care for specialist tools and equipment.
• Carrying out routine vehicle and equipment safety checks.
• Following health and safety procedures to maintain a safe working environment.
• Working as part of a team to deliver high-quality work and excellent customer service.
• Attending apprenticeship training and completing the required learning and assessments.
• Developing your skills, confidence and industry knowledge with support from experienced colleagues.

Who are we looking for?

• You don't need previousexperience – we're looking for someone with the right attitude and enthusiasm to learn.

Ideally, you'll be:

• Enthusiastic about working outdoors and interested in trees and the environment.
• Reliable, hardworking and willing to learn new skills.
• A positive team player who enjoys working with others.
• Comfortable with physical, hands‑on work.
• Willing to take feedback and develop your skills.
• Motivated to build a long-term career in arboriculture.

Your future starts here!

This isn't just about gaining a qualification. It's an opportunity to join an established company, learn from experienced professionals and develop a career with genuine earning potential.

Desired skills

• GCSE Maths and English at Grade 4/C or equivalent are desirable but not essential.
• No previous experience is required. A positive attitude, willingness to learn and enthusiasm for working outdoors are what matter most.

Your Level 2 Arborist Apprenticeship is just the beginning! With ongoing training and experience, you could progress into roles such as:

• Second Climber – £35,000–£38,600
• Team Leader / Lead Climber – £40,000–£46,000
• Operations Manager – further progression opportunities

At Tom Boswell Trees, we're committed to developing our people and supporting long-term, rewarding careers.

Things to consider

Applicants must be able to travel to West London for a 7:15am start. (hours may vary winter/summer months)Outdoor, physical work in all weather conditions and at heights.Must be 18+ for insurance purposes.Driving licence desirable but not essential.Travel subsidy of up to £25 per month available.

Training to be provided

• You will work towards the Level 2 Arborist Apprenticeship, combining practical, hands‑on experience with structured training and support.
• You will develop industry‑specific knowledge and practical skills while working alongside experienced arborists.
• Functional Skills in Maths and English will be provided where required, in line with apprenticeship eligibility requirements.
• You'll also have opportunities to develop your skills and explore further qualifications and career progression within the company.

About the employer

Tom Boswell Tree Services Ltd

Started in 2008, Tom Boswell Tree Services brings years of hands‑on arboricultural experience to every job. We work across residential gardens, estates, schools, housing organisations and commercial sites, with up to four teams operating daily to keep projects moving efficiently. Whether you need one‑off tree work or ongoing maintenance, we provide practical advice, quality workmanship and a professional service from start to finish.

Address

6 Claygate Road London W13 9XG