AN apprentice forester has told of the significant impact a training scheme has had on his career – and urged others to sign up.
Marcus Ling is currently on the Forestry Commission's Professional Forester Apprenticeship programme and says the best thing about it is the difference he is "already making on the landscape".
Launching for a third year, the scheme offers a three-year, paid development opportunity for individuals from all backgrounds looking to kickstart their careers in forestry. As well as hand-on experience in FC teams throughout England, apprentices enjoy academic studies in forestry management at the University of Cumbria, and have the chance to take part in wider sector placements.
"For the last few years I was working in the arboriculture and garden landscaping industry," Marcus said. "I was outside come rain or shine, working with a variety of tools. I really enjoyed this work, but wanted to increase my theoretical knowledge of trees, woodlands and nature. This apprenticeship enables me to study a university degree, learn from industry experts and still spend lots of my time outdoors.
“The best thing about the programme so far is the impact I am already having on the landscape, as I have been helping Woodland Officers to ensure that new planting is being undertaken responsibly and existing woodlands are managed carefully and all within my local area.”
Upon completion of the programme, successful graduates will earn a Professional Forester Apprenticeship (equivalent to Level 6), a BSc (Hons) Professional Forester and will be able to apply for Chartered Forester status with the Institute of Chartered Foresters.
Forestry Commission chief executive Richard Stanford said: “The Professional Forester Apprenticeship programme is a fantastic opportunity to earn as you learn, with our current students thriving though a unique mix of hands-on experience and academic study that will equip them for a future in forestry, and help to address the skills shortage in the forestry sector.
“The Forestry Commission is leading the way with this unique development opportunity, and we continue to see first-hand the success of this programme. I encourage anyone interested to apply today to make a difference to our trees and woodlands for generations to come.”
Previously known as the Development Woodland Officer programme, the application period for the next cohort of apprentices is now open. The FC is also looking for forestry organisations to step forward and offer placements for learners.
Dr Rob Hawkins, senior education and outreach officer at the Institute of Chartered Foresters, said: “We are delighted to see the launch of the third year of the Professional Forester Apprenticeship. This programme is a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience alongside a BSc (Hons) degree, with the potential to gain chartered status too.
"It’s an exciting time to be entering the sector and this initiative is an incredible way to get a head start in an amazing career."
To apply for a place on the Forestry Commission’s programme, visit Apply for a Forestry Apprenticeship - GOV.UK for more information.
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