About the course
This 2 day course costs £550
Having successfully achieved NPTC 201, 202, 203, 206, 306 this course will provide practical experience of aerial cutting of trees using free fall techniques as well as the relevant health and safety legislation and industry good practice.
The qualification is for individuals who use chainsaws as part of their work in arboriculture, forestry or other industries. It understanding and skills required to use chainsaws from a rope and harness safely and to industry standards in line with current legislation.
The qualification covers
Risk assessment
Emergency planning
Legislation
Industry best practice
Environmental considerations
Tree condition
Tools and equipment
Pruning techniques
Pruning from a rope and harness.
Key Information
Location: Preston Campus
Course length: One Year (one week)
Available course dates: Please select the appropriate campus and start date to apply online.
Preston Campus
Monday 7th September 2026
Preston Campus
Monday 26th October 2026
Preston Campus
Monday 8th February 2027
Preston Campus
Monday 17th May 2027
Entry requirements & additional information
Candidates must hold the following Chainsaw qualifications
Unit 201 (CS30.1)
Unit 202 (CS30.2)
Unit 203 (CS31)
Unit 206 (CS38 Tree climbing)
Unit 306 (CS38 Aerial rescue)
Unit 308 is compulsory if you intend to use top handled saws.
It is advised that students hold a current First Aid certificate before taking this training
2 training days with an assessment usually the same week, please allow a full day for this.
A whole range of further chainsaw courses including
Level 3 CG Award in Felling and Processing Trees over 380mm (Formerly CS32)
Level 2 CG Award in the Safe Use of a Manually Fed Wood Chipper
Safety Helmet - Climbing (HSE Recommended EN 12492 with ear protection to EN 352 -3 & mesh visor to EN 1731)
Chainsaw protective Gloves (HSE Recommended to EN 381-7), grippy/works style gloves
Chainsaw Trousers Class C (HSE Recommended to EN 381-5 (Chainsaw chaps are not suitable for College training)
Chainsaw Boots (HSE Recommended to EN 381-3) (Spats are not suitable for College training)
For further information, view the following link http://www.hse.gov.uk/treework/safety-topics/chainppe.htm
Other
Personal First Aid Kit (containing a large wound dressing)
Whistle
Sharp knife
Suitable non-snag outdoor clothing including waterproofs, you should be prepared for all weather conditions.
Hi visibility vest (short sleeved is acceptable)
The instructor reserves the right to withdraw the training to candidates if the PPE or equipment is not in a safe condition.
Climbing equipment and climbing chainsaws are available for use. If you would like to use your own climbing equipment, it will be at the discretion of the Tutor and must have all the current LOLER certificates. The instructor reserves the right to stop anyone using equipment they consider unfit for use.