Head of School - Stuart Bonnet
Opportunities for employment in arboriculture (tree surgery), countryside and conservation work continue to expand. There is a steady and increasing demand for staff with practical skills and expertise to contribute to environmental management.
Capel Manor College offers first-rate training sites including our own gardens, woodland and farm in Enfield, Horsenden Farm in west London, nature reserves, country parks and private estates, to practise skills and develop understanding.
Students benefit from regular field visits to a range of woodland, freshwater, coastal and grassland habitats, wildlife sites and urban greenspace.
Full-time provision for school leavers and for mature students returning to learning, and our programme of part-time day, apprenticeships, intensive and short courses provides specialist training and skills updating to rigorous industry standards.
Assessment of all of these qualifications is based on coursework more than examinations. Assessment for applicants is based on interview exploring interest, experience and ambitions. References are also taken up and screening tests conducted. The following entry requirements are given as guidelines.
See also
Arboriculture short courses
First Diploma in Countryside & Environment
This full-time course is designed for those seeking entrance to the Arboriculture or Countryside industry. It aims to give students basic practical experience and foundation knowledge of the subject.
Entry Requirements
Enthusiasm and interest in arboriculture and/or countryside and environment; 3 GCSE grades D to F or above, or Literacy Entry level 3/Key Skills Communication level 1/level 2 or on the basis of a school/college report.
Progression
Successful students may progress to a Level 3 BTEC course in either Arboriculture or Countryside Management.
National Certificate in Countryside Management
This course provides the knowledge and skills required for a career in countryside and estate management. Students may study either as full-time or part-time (2 days a week).
Entry Requirements
4 GCSEs at grade C or higher including a science subject or a First Diploma with Distinction and key skills. Previous experience of conservation work is an advantage . Accreditation of Prior Learning is available for mature students.
Progression
Progression could be to the second year of the National Diploma or in to Higher Education, employment or further training in the industry..
National Diploma in Countryside Management
A 2 year full-time course that has a strong practical base covering the specialist knowledge required for a career in countr yside or nature reserve management.
Entry Requirements
4 GCSEs at grade C or above including a science, completion of the First Diploma to Distinction standard with Key Skills or Accreditation of Prior Learning for mature students. Entry direct to second year following successful completion of National Certificate .
Progression
Higher Education or employment in the industry.
BTEC Nationals (Awards, Cer tificates and Diplomas) in Arboriculture and in Countryside Management are highly regarded in the industry and in Higher Education. Each of the three qualifications carries a specified number of UCAS tariff points.
The Award is the equivalent of 1 A level, the Certificate 2 A levels, the Diploma 3 A levels.
As with A levels, you’ll need independent study skills to be successful at level 3.
National Certificate/Diploma in Forestry & Arboriculture
The Certificate is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills required for competent practical posts in the industry. The Diploma offers the opportunity to become a knowledgeable arborist with the confidence and skills to take a responsible management post in the industry. The Certificate is completed in four terms and the Diploma over two years full-time. The Certificate is the equivalent of 2 A levels, the Diploma 3 A levels. Learners also have the opportunity to undertake a range of additional qualifications at levels 2 and 3, including Functional Skills.
All learners applying to the Diploma initially complete the Certificate and progress to the Diploma where appropriate.
Entry Requirements
4 GCSEs at grade C or above including a science subject or a First Diploma to Distinction standard with Key Skills. Previous practical experience, an NVQ Level 2 or equivalent in Horticulture or Arboriculture is an advantage. Accreditation of Prior learning is available for mature students.
Progression
Progression could be to the second year of the National Diploma or into Higher Education, employment or further training in the industry.
Apprenticeships
The Apprenticeship Programme is designed for people aged 16 and above who are working in the Arboriculture industry. Apprentices will usually attend college 1 day a week joining the programme at any time throughout the year, aiming to achieve an NVQ Level 2 within 12 months.
Entry Requirements
GCSE grades D to F or above, distinction overall on level 1 skills courses or Accreditation of Prior Learning for mature students.
Progression
Successful students may progress to a Level 3 BTEC course in either Arboriculture or Countryside Management.
