News

Forestry in the Community: New Level 1 Qualification

As the UK plants more woodland to help fight climate change, a new Level 1 Forestry in the Community Award has been launched. It will give young people aged 14-19 their first experience and qualifications in forestry.

By Wendy Necar · March 23, 2022

The Award has been developed by the Royal Forestry Society (RFS) in partnership with Open College Network (OCN) West Midlands and is equivalent to a pre GCSE level qualification grades 1 – 3 (D – G on the old scale).

Schools and organisations can apply to deliver the award from today.

Learning and Outreach Manager Becky Wilkinson said: “Forestry in the Community is modelled on our successful Junior Forester Award which has already introduced tens of thousands of primary school children to the concepts and benefits of managing and looking after a woodland.

“ The Level 1 award takes that understanding forward. We hope it will encourage many more young people to consider the exciting opportunities that exist in careers related to woodlands and forestry.”

The award covers four topic areas in which participants complete practical tasks and enhance their knowledge of woodlands and forestry:

  • The Managing Risk in a Woodland Environment
  • Woodland Plants and Animals
  • Woodland Management
  • Forestry in the Community

Please contact learning@rfs.org.uk for more details.