Apprentice Arborist

University of Oxford

Oxford (OX1 3RF)

Closes on Monday 27 July 2026

Posted on 19 May 2026

Print

Contents

Summary

Work across various sites and learn from experienced colleagues to carry out tree care, safely operate chainsaws/machinery, assist with aerial pruning, identify species/pests, and support tree planting & inspections through in-house & college training. Gain hands-on experience with chippers, stump grinders, and ground machinery.

Wage

£26,686 a year

Minimum wage rates (opens in new tab)

Training course
Arborist (level 2)
Hours
36.5 hours per week. Monday - Friday.

36 hours 30 minutes a week

Start date

Monday 3 August 2026

Duration

1 year 6 months

Positions available

1

Work

Most of your apprenticeship is spent working. You’ll learn on the job by getting hands-on experience.

What you'll do at work

  • Carry out tree care and maintenance activities
  • Operate chainsaws and arboricultural machinery safely and effectively
  • Assist with aerial pruning and dismantling operations
  • Identify tree species, pests, and diseases
  • Support tree planting, establishment, and aftercare
  • Undertake basic tree inspections
  • Use specialist equipment, like chippers, stump grinders, and other ground-based machinery

Where you'll work

Tentorium
South Lodge
South Parks Road
Oxford
OX1 3RF

Training

Apprenticeships include time away from working for specialist training. You’ll study to gain professional knowledge and skills.

Training provider

THE WINDSOR FOREST COLLEGES GROUP

Training course

Arborist (level 2)

Understanding apprenticeship levels (opens in new tab)

What you'll learn

Course contents
  • Recognise health and safety needs onsite and work safely
  • Complete site-specific risk assessments and emergency action plans
  • Select appropriate equipment for tree work operations
  • Set out workplace signage (highway & non highway) and assists with traffic control
  • Process tree work arisings using appropriate machinery
  • Maintain and take appropriate care of tools, equipment and other onsite factors (such as customer or public buildings etc.)
  • Recognise a variety of tree species using common names
  • Carry out a range of formative pruning operations
  • Carry out branch removal up to 200mm diameter with hand tools (target pruning for final cut).
  • Fell and process small trees up to 380mm diameter.
  • Support aerial tree workers with transfer of equipment for aerial tree work operations
  • Perform an aerial rescue of colleague from a rope and harness
  • Work safely at height in the tree under supervision
  • Communicate technical information about arboricultural operations to fellow team members, clients and other stakeholders as required.
  • Recognise health and safety needs onsite and work safely
  • Complete site-specific risk assessments and emergency action plans
  • Select appropriate equipment for tree work operations
  • Set out workplace signage (highway & non highway) and assists with traffic control
  • Process tree work arisings using appropriate machinery
  • Maintain and take appropriate care of tools, equipment and other onsite factors (such as customer or public buildings etc.)
  • Recognise a variety of tree species using common names
  • Carry out a range of formative pruning operations
  • Carry out branch removal up to 200mm diameter with hand tools (target pruning for final cut).
  • Fell and process small trees up to 380mm diameter.
  • Support aerial tree workers with transfer of equipment for aerial tree work operations
  • Perform an aerial rescue of colleague from a rope and harness
  • Work safely at height in the tree under supervision
  • Communicate technical information about arboricultural operations to fellow team members, clients and other stakeholders as required.

Training schedule

Attend Berkshire College of Agriculture once per fortnight.

Spend remaining time at place of employment.

Requirements

Essential qualifications

GCSE in:

  • English (grade 4-9 (C-A*) or equivalent)
  • Maths (grade 4-9 (C-A*) or equivalent)

Share if you have other relevant qualifications and industry experience. The apprenticeship can be adjusted to reflect what you already know.

Skills

  • Team working
  • Physical fitness
  • Hardworking
  • Positive
  • Willingness to Learn

Other requirements

  • Have the ability to work at height and undertake physically demanding work.
  • A strong interest in trees, horticulture, plants, or the outdoor environment.

About this employer

The University Parks team is responsible for maintaining and enhancing the University’s beautiful green spaces and historic tree collections. From iconic parks to departmental grounds and private client sites, the team delivers high-quality arboricultural and horticultural services that are admired and enjoyed by thousands of visitors each year. Working alongside skilled arborists, gardeners, horticulturists, and tree specialists, you’ll be part of a professional team that takes pride in caring for some of Oxford’s most valued landscapes.

As an apprentice at the University of Oxford, you will be fully supported from day one. You will work alongside experienced professionals in a friendly and collaborative environment, with additional support from the central apprenticeship team and access to a network of apprentices across the University. You will also have opportunities to develop your skills, confidence, and career prospects within the arboricultural sector.

After this apprenticeship

Potential to be offered full-time role, upon completion.

Opportunity to complete higher level qualifications.

Ask a question

The contact for this apprenticeship is:

THE WINDSOR FOREST COLLEGES GROUP

The reference code for this apprenticeship is VAC2000032497.

Apply now

Closes on Monday 27 July 2026