Part time Arborist course?

[rcarolina]

Sorry if this question has been asked a million times. I currently work in horticulture but really want to pursue a career in arboriculture. However, I have managed to back myself into a corner where I simply can't afford to give up work to re-train. Is there such a thing as a part-time arb course that will give me a recognised qulaification as well as factor in prcatical qualifications?

 

Plumpton do an intensive three month course all in, but I can't stop work for three months and I don't think my boss would be too chuffed giving me the time off to go and re-train only to leave on my return. Hadlow don't seem to do anything suitable either. I already have CS30/31 and a fair bit of experience of ground work and low level tree work. I know I really need to get CS38/39 as well as some classroom based training to be a serious contender - any help on this score would be much appreciated. I am E Sussex/Kent borders.

 

P.S. Is the Silky Gomtaro the sharpest thing known to mankind?

[alex_m]

various places do week long courses for the individual tickets.

not sure if kingswood training do that - they are close to you.

[Dean O]

I know times are tough for many tree firms at the mo, but as you already have 30/31 and groundy experience : why dont you get looking for a groundy job and go from there?

 

if you are the right employee then the right employer will support you through further training. tree science can be learned on web based courses (p/t and from home) but theres nothing better than on the job training for the more general aspects imo.

 

tree and disease ID are important: just get out there with a couple of good guides and learn what you can yourself..... most employers will recognise and respect this effort more than doing an intense short course for example.

 

dont get me wrong i would certainly respect somebody coming out of an arb study course part time or full time.

[Ian C]

Like Dean said, why not get a groundy job first with the tickets you have got now and do something like the ISA cert arb course, its home study so you can do it in your own time and is well reconised.

[rcarolina]

Thanks for the replies guys. I didn't think without CS38 I'd be any use as a groundie? I have done quite a bit of woodland work, coppicing, small felling, snedding etc and I work hard but thought I needed the three tickets before anyone would consider me.

 

Looks like Chichester College at the Brinsbury campus do some part time courses - anyone have any experience of this centre?

 

Thanks.

[Dean O]

your right - there should be someone on site with arial rescue - but if your joining a team there should be one already in place.

the firm should then be able to and willing to at least teach you the basics before going for the tickets. most people in the know will be willing to help you if you show commitment and willing to learn.

IC's idea of a the ISA course is a good one. I have offered a bonus to my groundy if he completes it off his own back as i think the willing to improve yourself without being spoon fed it is worth a lot..

[Alinicoll]

What Dean says

[Shansen]

Not sure if there would any complications with you being overseas or would even be revelant but the University of Oregon has internet courses.

Welcome -- Oregon State University -- Extended Campus -- Ecampus

as does North Dakota

Online Campus :: Dakota College at Bottineau

[rcarolina]

Dean-O,

 

You sound like my kind of boss - how about moving down south and setting up a new firm here?

[Dean O]

thanks.

good luck with your search - IMO - do everythng you can to make the transition - im sure you wont regret it.