A Guide to Felling and Processing Small Trees Training
- 5 days ago
- 4 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
Introduction to Our Arboriculture Training Guide Series
Felling and processing small trees is often the next stage for those who have already developed basic chainsaw skills and are looking to progress within arboriculture. The training introduces the techniques required to safely fell small diameter trees and carry out controlled ground-based operations.
Many candidates begin with Chainsaw Maintenance and Cross-Cutting training which provides the foundation required before progressing to tree felling operations.
This article forms part of a series of practical guides to arboriculture training, designed to explain the purpose of common courses within the industry. Each guide looks at what the training typically covers, how it fits within a career in tree work, and how it relates to other qualifications.
Across the UK arboricultural industry, practical competence is commonly demonstrated through independent assessment leading to industry-recognised qualifications. These qualifications are awarded by recognised organisations such as City & Guilds NPTC and Lantra, both of which assess practical skills against industry standards. This guide aims to provide a clear overview of training that helps candidates prepare for these types of assessments.
What Is Felling and Processing Small Trees Training?
Felling and Processing Small Trees training builds on existing chainsaw skills and focuses on the safe and controlled felling of small diameter trees.
Small tree felling training typically covers trees up to approximately 380mm in diameter and introduces recognised cutting techniques used to control the direction of fall while maintaining safe working practices.
The training also includes processing felled timber, including cross-cutting and understanding how timber behaves under tension and compression.
This stage of training is an important step for those looking to progress within arboriculture, forestry, or land-based roles involving tree work.
Why Small Tree Felling Training Is Important
Felling even small trees involves a range of hazards, including:
Falling timber
Unpredictable tree movement
Tension and compression within timber
Environmental and site-specific risks
Because of these factors, appropriate training is essential to develop safe working practices.
UK health and safety legislation, including the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER), requires that individuals using equipment such as chainsaws are properly trained and competent.
Within the arboricultural industry, this competence is commonly demonstrated through independent assessment and industry-recognised qualifications, such as those awarded by City & Guilds NPTC.
What Will You Learn During Small Tree Felling Training?
Training courses are designed to develop the knowledge and practical skills required to safely fell and process small trees.
During the course, candidates may learn how to:
Assess a site and plan a felling operation
Identify hazards and carry out basic risk assessments
Select and apply appropriate felling techniques
Make accurate and effective felling cuts
Control the direction of fall
Deal with hung-up trees safely
Process felled timber efficiently
Understand tension and compression in timber
The aim of the training is to build confidence in carrying out controlled felling operations while maintaining safe working practices.
Training and Independent Assessment
Training provides candidates with the opportunity to develop practical skills under instruction and gain experience in realistic working scenarios.
Following training, candidates may undertake an independent assessment conducted by City & Guilds NPTC, which evaluates whether they meet the required standard of competence.
Because the assessment is separate from the training, successful completion of training does not automatically result in qualification. Candidates must demonstrate their ability to carry out tasks safely and effectively during the assessment.
How This Course Fits Into an Arboriculture Career
Felling and Processing Small Trees training is commonly taken after initial chainsaw training and forms a key part of early career development in arboriculture.
It is particularly relevant for those involved in:
Ground-based tree work
Forestry operations
Estate and land management
Woodland maintenance
Developing competence in tree felling operations allows individuals to carry out a wider range of tasks and supports progression within the industry.
Progression to Other Arboriculture Qualifications
After gaining experience in small tree felling, candidates may choose to progress to further training depending on their role and career goals.
Common progression routes may include:
Further training may be required for those carrying out more advanced felling operations involving larger diameter trees.
These qualifications build on the skills developed during small tree felling training.
Who Is This Course Suitable For?
Felling and Processing Small Trees training is suitable for individuals who already have some experience with chainsaw use and are looking to develop their skills further.
This may include:
Individuals progressing from basic chainsaw training
Ground staff working in arboricultural teams
Forestry workers
Land-based professionals
Those involved in woodland or estate management
A qualification in Chainsaw Maintenance and Cross-Cutting training is typically expected before undertaking this type of training.
Frequently Asked Questions About Small Tree Felling Training
Do you need small tree felling training to work in arboriculture?
Many roles within arboriculture and forestry involve tree felling. Employers and contractors often expect individuals carrying out this work to demonstrate competence through appropriate training and independent assessment, commonly through qualifications awarded by City & Guilds NPTC.
How long does small tree felling training take?
Training courses can vary depending on experience levels and course structure. They are typically delivered over several days, allowing candidates to develop practical skills and prepare for independent assessment.
What size trees are covered in this training?
Small tree felling training generally covers trees up to a specified diameter, often around 380mm, depending on the assessment criteria being followed.
Is this course suitable for beginners?
This training is usually taken after completing basic chainsaw training, as it builds on those foundational skills.
Part of a Series: Arboriculture Training Guides
This article forms part of a series designed to explain how different arboriculture training courses fit together.
Other guides in this series include:
Tree Climbing and Aerial Rescue Training
Using a Chainsaw from a Rope and Harness
Interested in Arboricultural Training?
If you are considering developing practical arboricultural skills, structured training can provide a useful next step. Training allows candidates to build confidence in safe working practices and develop the skills required for tree felling and ground-based operations.
At Practical Arb, our courses are designed to support candidates working towards industry-recognised qualifications assessed by City & Guilds NPTC.
If you would like to learn more about upcoming training opportunities, you can view details of our available courses here:
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