Forestry Commission Launches New Apprenticeship Schemes to Strengthen Workforce
The Forestry Commission has initiated the recruitment of Development Woodland Officers for its Professional Forester Apprenticeship programme and unveiled a new initiative aimed at assisting small forestry enterprises. These efforts coincide with the start of National Apprenticeship Week, highlighting the importance of such programmes in cultivating a skilled workforce in the forestry sector.
Significance of Apprenticeships in Forestry
These new schemes aim to facilitate entry into forestry careers, contributing to the UK’s environmental objectives and stimulating economic growth. David Bole, Head of Green Economy and Skills at the Forestry Commission, emphasised the meaningful work opportunities available in forestry, underscoring the government’s commitment to fostering a robust and skilled labour force for the future.
“Our support for apprenticeships through the Sector Skills Plan demonstrates the government’s ongoing commitment to developing skilled workers and building a resilient sector,” Bole remarked.
Support for Small Forestry Employers
A newly introduced pilot scheme seeks to alleviate the challenges faced by small forestry companies, making it simpler for them to recruit skilled employees and strengthen their workforce. The non-profit organisation Supplytrain will handle administrative tasks related to Level 3 Forest Craftsperson apprenticeships, including recruitment and college coordination.
This arrangement enables small and seasonal forestry firms to engage apprentices without the typical administrative burdens. Employers are only responsible for paying apprentices’ wages and providing on-the-job training. The initiative includes essential training elements such as chainsaw operation, pesticide handling, and forestry first aid, with additional support for apprentices’ travel and accommodation during college attendance. Additionally, the apprentices can be shared across multiple businesses, offering flexibility without the need for a full two-year commitment.
Opportunities for Development Woodland Officers
The Professional Forester Apprenticeship programme, in partnership with the University of Cumbria, will recruit eight Development Woodland Officers. This three-year, paid apprenticeship is open to school leavers, graduates, or individuals seeking a career transition into the forestry sector.
Since the programme’s inception in 2022, it has successfully launched 50 apprentices into careers at the Forestry Commission, with an additional 49 participants from other areas within the sector. Graduates of this programme will earn a Professional Forester Apprenticeship, equivalent to Level 6, alongside a BSc (Hons) in Professional Forestry, and will be eligible to apply for Chartered Forester status with the Institute of Chartered Foresters.
How to Apply
Potential applicants can find additional information about the Level 3 apprentices project on the Supplytrain website, or participate in an upcoming webinar hosted by Supplytrain on Tuesday, 10 February, at 1pm. Further details regarding the application process for the Professional Forester Apprenticeship programme are available here. The application deadline is set for Sunday, 1 March 2026, at 11:55pm.
Source: official statements, news agencies, and public reports.
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-routes-into-forestry-careers-as-apprenticeship-schemes-open
