Course Description
Tree Climbing & Aerial Rescue (CS38) is the essential qualification for anyone required to climb trees using rope and harness techniques. This course provides the skills needed to safely access trees, move confidently within the canopy, and carry out rescue procedures in emergency situations. It is a mandatory requirement for anyone working off the ground in arboriculture to stay compliant with the Working at Height Regulations, and a prerequisite for all other aerial qualifications. Delivered through structured, hands-on training, CS38 focuses on safe climbing systems, work positioning, and effective rescue planning in line with Arboricultural Association Technical Guide 1.
Course Overview
Qualification Title
City and Guilds NPTC Level 2 Certificate of Competence in Tree Climbing and Aerial Rescue (0039-22)
Course Cost
£799 including City and Guilds NPTC registration and assessment fees.
Course Duration
4 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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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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Climb trees using rope and harness systems
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Move safely within the tree canopy
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Carry out aerial rescue of an injured climber
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Progress to CS39 – Aerial Cutting with a Chainsaw
Who's This Course For?
Assessment & Certification
This course is ideal for:
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Trainee arborists and ground staff looking to progress in to climbing
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Local authority operatives
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Forestry and estates workers
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Anyone required to act as an aerial rescuer
Assessment is completed by an independent City & Guilds NPTC assessor. Candidates must demonstrate:
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Demonstrating safe climbing techniques
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Effective movement within the tree
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Carrying out aerial rescue scenarios in the canopy and on a pole
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Inspection and setup of climbing systems.
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Successful learners receive a City & Guilds NPTC Level 2 Certificate of Competence in Tree Climbing and Aerial Rescue.
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?
Planning & Risk Assessment
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Relevant regulations assoiciated with tree climbing e.g, WaHR, LOLER and PPE regulations
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Evaluating a tree for hazards
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Tree climbing equipment inspection
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Planning tree climbing operations
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Equipment maintenance and storage
Aerial Rescue Procedures
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Planning rescue scenarios
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Rescuing from the canopy and a pole
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Setting up systems used for aerial rescue
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Emergency communication and control
Tree Access & Work Positioning
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Rope installation techniques
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Ascending and descending safely
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Moving around the canopy
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Work positioning in the tree
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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Helmet with 4 static point chin strap
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Boots with good grip and offer ankle support
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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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Weather appropriate clothing
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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.
Is CS38 required before CS39?
Yes — CS38 is mandatory before using a chainsaw in the tree.
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Do I need climbing experience?
No — this course is designed for new climbers, although a minimum level of fitness and head for heights is required.