Previously slammed Forestry Commission training centre praised

The FC's Technical Training Centre – where 14 apprentices learn how to use equipment such as chainsaws – was given the second-lowest rating by watchdog Ofsted following two visits to the Staffordshire site last June. 

In a report, inspectors found fault in a number of areas, highlighting the fact not all learners were made aware of career opportunities within the industry. Senior managers were also criticised for being "slow" to improve the quality of education, leading to "poor attendance" and apprentices becoming "demotivated". 

READ MORE: FC training centre slammed by inspectors

Giving the Rugeley centre a "requires improvement" rating, poor record keeping was also cited by Ofsted officials as a major fault. At the time, forestry chiefs pledged to take the findings on board and make the necessary changes – and a recent monitoring visit has praised staff at the hub for doing just that. 

Remarking the "significant progress" in several areas – including how leaders self assess – Ofsted said apprentices are benefitting from regular progress reviews. The high quality of teaching was also praised. Elsewhere, inspectors concluded "reasonable progress" was being made in terms of the career advice offered to learners. 

Mike Seddon, Forestry England chief executive, said: “We are pleased that Ofsted has recognised the improvements we have made on our level 3 forest craftsperson apprenticeship. 

Mike Seddon (Image: Supplied/Forestry England)

“After the first inspection in June 2022, we put in place a quality improvement plan and it’s great to see the changes we have made have been recognised. 

“It is critical to keep attracting new people to the forestry sector and apprenticeships can offer a great start to what is often a career for life. We hope to continue to deliver good or outstanding training and that all apprentices continue to enjoy the course whilst learning forestry skills.”