This course provides comprehensive practical training in chainsaw maintenance, cross-cutting, and the safe felling and processing of trees up to 380mm in diameter. The course combines five days of training with one day of assessment.

Learners will develop the knowledge and practical skills required to maintain and operate a chainsaw safely, including chainsaw components and safety features, routine maintenance, chain sharpening, guide bar and chain maintenance, pre-use checks, appropriate PPE, safe starting and handling techniques, and cross-cutting timber.

The course also develops the skills required to fell and process small trees safely. Learners will cover site and tree assessment, preparation of the work area, appropriate felling techniques, dealing with hazards, taking down hung-up trees where appropriate, delimbing and cross-cutting felled trees, and safe working practices.

Successful completion of the required assessments leads to two separate Level 2 Certificates of Competence covering chainsaw maintenance and cross-cutting, and felling small trees up to 380mm.

Learners must be registered with the current Farming Connect programme, have access to the Skills Hub using RPW Online One Login, and have completed their Personal Development Plan (PDP). Learners must also complete the mandatory Health and Safety – Risk Management in Forestry and Farming e-learning module. No previous chainsaw qualification or experience is required.

Successful completion of the course and assessments leads to two separate qualifications:

City & Guilds Level 2 Certificate of Competence in Chainsaw Maintenance and Cross-Cutting (0039-20)

City & Guilds Level 2 Certificate of Competence in Felling Small Trees up to 380mm (0039-21)

Learners may wish to progress to further chainsaw, forestry or arboriculture training, including more advanced tree felling, aerial tree work or other specialist chainsaw qualifications relevant to their work.

Learners should wear suitable clothing, safety footwear and the appropriate chainsaw PPE for all practical training and assessment. Any specific PPE, identification, equipment or course materials required will be confirmed before the course.