Chainsaw Training Courses
– City & Guilds NPTC
Practical Arb delivers professional chainsaw training courses leading to City & Guilds NPTC assessment. These courses provide structured, practical training in chainsaw maintenance, cross-cutting and tree felling, supporting safe working practices and clear progression through City and Guild NPTC units. Training is delivered in realistic working environments and aligned with current industry standards, supporting arborists, forestry workers and grounds staff who require recognised certification for professional chainsaw use.
Chainsaw Training Courses
Chainsaw qualifications are structured to support progressive skill development, beginning with maintenance and cross-cutting and advancing through tree felling and more complex operations. Our courses are suitable for new entrants as well as experienced operators seeking formal certification or continued professional development.
City and Guilds NPTC Level 2 in Chainsaw Maintenance and Cross Cutting - 0039-20
Essential foundation training covering chainsaw maintenance, safety checks and cross-cutting techniques, supporting progression into tree felling and further NPTC units.
City and Guilds NPTC Level 2 in Felling Small Trees up to 380mm - 0039-20
Practical training in the safe felling of small trees, building on CS30 knowledge and forming a key progression route within NPTC chainsaw qualifications.
City and Guilds NPTC Level 3 in Felling and Processing Trees over 380mm and up to 760mm - 0039-33
Advanced chainsaw training focused on the safe felling of medium trees, supporting professional development for experienced operators progressing within arboriculture and forestry roles.
Who These Courses Are Designed For
These chainsaw training courses are designed for individuals who require recognised chainsaw certification for professional or occupational use. Training supports safe, compliant chainsaw operations and structured progression through City & Guilds NPTC units.
These courses are suitable for:
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Aspiring arborists entering the arboricultural or forestry sector
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Grounds maintenance and estate management teams
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Agricultural and land-based workers
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Tree surgery assistants and contractors
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Employers seeking certificated training for workforce compliance
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Individuals requiring NPTC certification under PUWER and industry guidance
Training Standards & Industry Best Practice
All chainsaw courses are delivered in line with current industry standards and recognised best practice. Training focuses on safe systems of work, effective risk assessment and correct operational techniques appropriate to ground-based chainsaw use.
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Instruction supports alignment with:
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Health and Safety Executive (HSE) guidance
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PUWER requirements for work equipment
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Industry-accepted arboricultural and forestry practices
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Courses conclude with independent City & Guilds NPTC assessment, providing recognised certification widely accepted across the UK.
Progression & Refresher Training
Chainsaw training courses are structured to support clear progression through NPTC qualifications, from maintenance and cross-cutting through to tree felling and advanced operations.
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For experienced operators, refresher and CPD training is available to support ongoing competence, skills development and alignment with current guidance. Refresher training is particularly relevant for employers, contractors and those returning to chainsaw work following a period away from operational activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do these courses include an assessment?
Yes. All chainsaw training courses conclude with independent City & Guilds NPTC assessment, delivered in accordance with awarding body requirements.
Do I need previous chainsaw experience?
Some courses are suitable for new entrants, while others require prior City and Guilds NPTC units. Entry requirements are listed on individual course pages to help candidates select appropriate training.
Do City and Guilds NPTC qualifications expire?
City and Guilds NPTC certificates do not expire. However, refresher training is recommended to support ongoing competence and alignment with current industry guidance.
Is refresher or CPD training available?
Yes. Refresher and CPD training is available for chainsaw units and is suitable for experienced operators, employers and those returning to chainsaw work. Click here to view our Refresher/CPD Training Courses.
Do I need my own chainsaw and PPE?
Personal protective equipment (PPE) and equipment requirements are listed on the relevant course booking page. Equipment may be provided where stated.
Booking, Pricing and Course Information
Course bookings are managed through our online booking system. When selecting a course or date, you will be securely redirected to our Bookwhen booking platform to complete your booking.
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All published course prices:
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Include City & Guilds / NPTC registration and assessment fees
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Exclude personal protective equipment (PPE) and operational equipment, unless otherwise stated
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Details of required PPE and equipment are provided on the relevant course booking page.
Assessment-only bookings are available for selected units. Prices for assessment-only options are available on application and subject to candidate eligibility and prerequisites.
Course Availability, Waiting Lists & Bespoke Training
If you cannot find a course date that suits your availability, you are welcome to join our waiting list or contact us directly. We can often schedule additional course dates where demand allows.
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Practical Arb also offers bespoke training solutions, including delivery at client premises where appropriate. Tailored courses may be suitable for organisations, teams or individuals with specific operational requirements.