MA Trees and Timber (SCQF Level 5)

A career in the trees and timber industry could see you protecting not only Scotland’s natural heritage but an economic resource. The industry is made up of many different types of businesses including arboriculture, forestry, harvesting, social forestry and greenwood trades.

What is a Modern Apprenticeship (MA)?
Modern Apprenticeships are work-based pathways to recognised industry qualifications. They provide employers support to develop a strong workforce by teaching new and existing employees valuable skills and knowledge directly relevant to their business. For employees, they are a pathway to industry and nationally recognised qualifications.

How does it work?
When you study a MA with us, we deliver the programme, provide your training, assessments and qualification recognition. We also access funding on behalf of you and your employer.

In an MA, you’ll immediately put your knowledge and learning into practice, making a real contribution to improving business productivity.

As well as gaining experience in the workplace, you’ll be supported by 'off-the-job training' at college. MA’s typically take between 12 and 18 months and each provides a route or pathway to further skills opportunities and potential progression.

Virtual Experience

Take a look around the SRUC Virtual Experience for lots of great student videos and examples of what it’s like to study our courses, along with campus and facility tours.

SRUC holds open days regularly. Visit our listings page for details of our up-coming events.

The Modern Apprenticeship comprises of elements that must be achieved: SVQ Trees and Timber, work-based core skills in ICT, First Aid certification and one other industry-specific training course.

You'll cover topics such as tree identification, health and safety and working to establish and maintain working relationships. There are also a range of optional units such as plant trees, control unwanted vegetation, maintain and repair paths and surfaces and felling trees using a chainsaw.

There is not normally a requirement for a fee contribution from the apprentice or the employer. SRUC will secure funding on your behalf from Skills Development Scotland to meet the cost of your training and Modern Apprenticeships. 

However an apprentice must be in employment and the employer would be expected to support the apprentice whilst under training, including for agreed off-the-job training elements.

Funding may also be available to support apprentices where, for example, remoteness, rurality, or disability, may affect an apprentice's ability to fully engage with and complete an apprenticeship programme. Please contact us for details.