Professional Forester Apprenticeship
Nationwide
Job details
Location
Nationwide
Contract
Temporary
Closing date
March 1, 2026
About the Professional Forester Apprenticeship Programme
The Forestry Commission is offering a 3-year, paid apprenticeship programme for Development Woodland Officers, designed to kickstart a career in forestry.
The Professional Forester Apprenticeship programme is open to school leavers, graduates, or anyone looking for a change in career direction.
We launched this development opportunity in 2022 in partnership with the National School of Forestry (University of Cumbria) and the Institute of Chartered Foresters. It marked the first time that a degree-level forestry apprenticeship had been offered in the UK.
We are looking for driven individuals who are eager to support ambitious tree planting plans and ensure our precious woods and forests continue to flourish for generations to come.
Upon completion of the programme, successful graduates will earn a Professional Forester Apprenticeship (equivalent to Level 6), BSc (Hons) Professional Forester and will be able to apply for Chartered Forester status with the Institute of Chartered Foresters.
What is involved
Development Woodland Officer apprentices will spend 80% of working hours consolidating skills in a real-life working environment. The remaining 20% will be spent in off-the-job learning with the National School of Forestry, consisting of bi-monthly residential blocks.
Apprentices will benefit from:
- academic studies in forestry management at the National School of Forestry, University of Cumbria
- practical experience in area teams across England
- potential sector placements to further build skills and experience, enhancing future employment prospects
Eligibility
The programme is open to school leavers, graduates or anyone looking change career.
As a ‘level 6 apprenticeship’ is a degree level qualification, there is a strong academic element within the programme.
Minimum entry requirements are:
- maths: GCSE pass at grade C or 4 and above
- English: GCSE pass at grade C or 4 and above
- minimum of 96 UCAS points, these can be made up in several ways
Check your qualifications using the UCAS Tariff Calculator.
Successful applicants will need to live and work within the geographical area during their employment. Relocation expenses will not be provided.
