Level 2 Diploma in Practical Arboriculture Skills
This one-year course gives you a solid foundation in the science and practice of arboriculture. You will benefit from undertaking practical hands-on work at the Broomfield Hall estate and in the surrounding countryside.
Course Summary
Course Information for Students
Who is this course for?
School leavers who wish to pursue a career in arboriculture or forestry management.
We also accept applications from 19+ learners looking to build their knowledge and skills.
Entry Requirements
3 GCSEs at a grade 3 or above, including English and Maths.
OR
A Level 1 Diploma at a Merit or above, including English and Maths GCSEs/Functional Skills.
A keen interest in forestry work and chainsaws is essential to study this programme.
You will have an interview which parents and carers are welcome to attend. You will also be asked to show an example of any current work.
If you are a mature learner, we may be able to take into consideration any previous experience you may have.
You will also need to obtain relevant work experience: more details will be given at your interview.
What will you learn?
The course consists of:
- Tutorial
- Work Experience
- NPTC 0039-20 Cross Cutting and Maintenance with a Chainsaw
- NPTC 0039-21 Felling Small Trees with a Chainsaw
- NPTC 0039-22 Tree Climbing and Aerial Rescue
- Woodland Management
- Tree Pests and Diseases
- Estate Maintenance
You will also study GCSE English and Maths alongside your main study programme, if you don’t already have these at a Grade 4/C or above.
How will you learn?
You will learn via classroom sessions and practical hands-on experience with chainsaws and climbing at the Broomfield Hall Campus.
What will you need to bring with you?
You will need to invest in:
- Chainsaw-approved trousers, boots, gloves and helmet
- Steel toe-capped boots or wellingtons
- Derby College Group coveralls (these will be available to purchase during enrolment)
- Derby College Group uniform
- Writing materials, including a lever arch file and dividers
- Work gloves
- Outdoor clothing
More information on Personal Protective Equipment will be given at your interview and induction.
How will you be assessed?
All NPTC qualifications are assessed through an external practical assessment.
Where next?
You could advance to an apprenticeship in arboriculture or a Level 3 qualification at Broomfield Hall.
Derby College Group offers a range of one-day, weekend and evening courses relating to arboriculture, as well as a wide variety of other land-based topics – please see the Derby College Group Part-time Prospectus for a full list and details.
Who do you contact for more information?
For more information, contact Derby College Group on 0800 0280289 or enquiries@derby-college.ac.uk
Course Information for Employers
Information for Employers
Career Information
DCG Success Stories
Discover how our students have achieved success. Their hard work and dedication to learning has enabled them to succeed in rewarding careers or progress onto higher education.
We encourage progress and aspirational outcomes by guiding people onto learning pathways that lead to positive destinations. Our students have gone on to achieve great things since leaving the College. We would like to share some of their inspiring success stories with you.
Find out what funding could be available to you:
Thinking about returning to education or developing new skills? Use our funding calculator below to get an estimate of the financial support you may be eligible for based on where you live.
Whether you’re looking to retrain, progress in your career, or try something new, funding could make your next step more accessible than you think.
Simply enter your postcode into the calculator to see an estimate of the funding that may be available in your area. This is based on regional funding allocations and typical eligibility criteria for adult learners.
Important:
The results shown are a guide only and are not a guarantee of funding.
Funding availability can vary depending on:
- Your personal circumstances (such as age, employment status, and prior qualifications)
- The course you choose
- Government and local funding rules at the time of enrolment
If you’re considering adult learning, there’s never been a better time to explore your options.
Our courses are designed to fit around your life, with flexible study options and expert support every step of the way.
Find out more about the courses available. Adult Courses
If you have any questions about funding, eligibility, or courses, our team is here to help. Contact Us
Applications for 2026 Full-Time School Leaver Courses are now CLOSED FOR PROCESSING*
If you’ve already applied for a full-time vocational or academic course, please check your InTouch account to view your application status and accept any outstanding offers. We may also be trying to contact you by phone, so keep an ear out for calls from the College — to ensure we are progressing your first-choice course area.
Haven’t applied yet?
Your next opportunity will be during our Open Enrolment sessions, starting Wednesday 26th August at 12pm. Please note that places will be limited and subject to course availability, entry requirements, and interviews. Find out more about Enrolment and Clearing Enrolment: Enrolment and Clearing Information 2026
Course Information Last Updated On: October 17, 2025 10:23 am
