I'm 37 and needing to change careers from working as a chef. I've a few questions to clarify please. Your comments are much appreciated.
Prior to becoming a chef I worked as a gardener and trained at RBG Kew, so I know that I like working outdoors and love plants. More recently, I have become increasingly curious about trees and am wondering if it's too late in the day to train in Arboriculture?
To flesh-out the above. Back in 2012 I broke my back and neck in a cycling crash, which at the time put an end to my gardening days. I went on to work as a chef but have never really felt it was right for me. The only thing I have ever done that has really felt right is working with plants and being outdoors. As is said, when you know, you know. . Fortunately I have no lasting effects from the injuries and am very fit. I guess what I don't know is how physical the work as an arborist is and whether it's possible to work as an arborist without climbing? With this medical history, is it madness to even contemplate a career with trees?
I need a career that will last the longterm, preferably one with a mixture of indoor and outdoor work. Are there areas of Arboriculture that one can move into that don't involve working outside all the time? I'm a grafter and work hard, so this side of the work doesn't deter me at all. It's more what's physically practical. Maybe a more office-based role with site visits would suit better, but does this exist?
If the answer to the above is a yes (a suitable arb career is possible) where would you suggest to train? I live in SW London.
Many thanks
Nick
Rare
