Course Description
CS40 – Aerial Tree Pruning builds on existing climbing and aerial chainsaw skills and focuses on carrying out pruning operations in accordance with industry best practice. This course is designed for competent climbers who need to perform aerial pruning safely, efficiently, and to recognised standards, including the principles set out in BS3998: Tree Work – Recommendations.
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Learners develop the skills required to undertake common pruning operations such as crown reductions, crown thinning, and selective removal of branches, while maintaining tree health, structural integrity, and site safety. Emphasis is placed on correct pruning cuts, work positioning, and planning aerial operations to suit species, form, and site constraints.
Course Overview
Qualification Title
City and Guilds NPTC Level 3 Certificate of Competence in Aerial Tree Pruning (0039-31)
Course Cost
£595 including City and Guilds NPTC registration and assessment fees.
Course Duration
2 days training followed by 1 day independent NPTC assessment.
Entry Requirements
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Be 16 years old or above
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Hold Chainsaw Maintenance and Cross Cutting (CS30)
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Hold Small Tree Felling (CS31)
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Hold Tree Climbing and Aerial Rescue (CS38)
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Hold Aerial Tree Cutting (CS39)
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Have a suitable level of fitness for tree climbing and a head for heights
What This Qualification Allows You To Do
After completing the course and assessment, successful candidates are qualified to:
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Carry out crown reductions
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Carry out crown thinning
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Carry out tree works in accordance with BS3998
Who's This Course For?
Assessment & Certification
This course is ideal for:
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Experienced climbing arborists
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Tree surgeons carrying out pruning work
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Contractors undertaking crown reduction and thinning
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Local authority and estate tree teams
Assessment is completed by an independent City & Guilds NPTC assessor. Candidates must demonstrate:
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Demonstrating correct pruning techniques
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Maintaining safe and efficient work positioning
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Carry out work to site specifications
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Working to industry standards
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Successful learners receive a City & Guilds NPTC Level 3 Certificate of Competence in Aerial Tree Pruning.
This qualification is recognised by the Forestry and Arboricultural industry in the UK and other countries around the world. Also, widely recognised by UK employers, insurance providers and local authorities.
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What Will You Learn?
Tree Biology & Pruning Principles
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How pruning can benefit tree health and appearance
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Selecting appropriate pruning cuts
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Minimising damage and stress to the tree
Aerial Pruning Techniques
Planning Pruning Operations (Unit 309)
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Work positioing
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Selection of pruning tools
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Correct target pruning techniques for tree health
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Using cutting techniques to reduce splitting and tearing of limbs
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Crown thinning and selective pruning
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Crown lifting and deadwood removal
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Crown reductions
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Target pruning
PPE & Equipment Required
FAQs
All equipment must be in good/safe working order, and meet minimum standards in accordance with WaHR, LOLER, PPE regulations.
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Minimum climbing kit to include:​
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Tree climbing harness
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Two climbing ropes (35m minimum recommended)
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3 Prussick loops
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5 carabiners (three way, auto locking)
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Side strop system
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Climbing spikes
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Personal first aid kit and rescue knife
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Helmet with 4 static point chin strap, Ear protection and Eye protection
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Chainsaw trousers, minimum class 1 type C
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Chainsaw boots
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Weather appropriate clothing
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Hand saw for pruning
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Top handle chainsaw with tool strop in good condition
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Maintenance and sharpening kit for chainsaw
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Fuel and chain oil
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All climbing kit must have an in date LOLER certificate, or if purchased within six months, receipts. This must cover the training and assessment dates.
Do I need CS39 before CS40?
Yes — CS39 is required before undertaking aerial pruning.
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Is this suitable for experienced climbers?
Yes — this is an advanced qualification, previous climbing experience is beneficial.