chainsaw courses and Arb training

High-quality, hands-on arboriculture training, forestry courses, and NPTC qualifications

Chainsaw Courses and Qualifications for Greater Manchester

Get NPTC-qualified with focused, expert-led tree climbing and chainsaw courses.

At Great Oaks Training, we offer practical chainsaw training, forestry courses, and NPTC qualifications for learners from Manchester. All practical training is delivered at our Preston training centre near Kirkham, a straightforward drive up the M61 from Greater Manchester. We welcome learners from Salford, Stockport, Bolton, and the wider Greater Manchester area. Our training supports both urban and rural tree work across the North West.

Our training meets the latest industry standards, with City & Guilds NPTC qualifications and courses covering everything from chainsaw maintenance and cross-cutting to felling small trees, aerial rescue, and chainsaw use from a rope and harness.

All our practical courses are delivered by experienced instructors who’ve worked at the highest levels of the industry – giving you real-world insights and skills that stick.

Get in touch today:

If you’re looking to gain your chainsaw licence, expand your qualifications, or transition into a career in forestry, our Preston training centre, an easy reach from Manchester, offers the perfect environment. With expert-led sessions and access to our exclusive online e-learning portal, you’ll receive the tools and support to succeed long after your course ends.

We also offer:

Refresher Training for experienced arborists. Whether you’re returning to the industry, preparing for reassessment, or ensuring your team meets HSE and industry expectations, we deliver training that’s current, relevant, and fully aligned with industry guidance and best practice.
One-to-One Training for those looking to fast-track their skills or receive focused support in a private learning environment. Whether you’re new to the industry or looking to sharpen specific techniques, personalised tuition ensures every hour is spent addressing your needs not a group’s.

Contact Us to Get Started

01772 369694 – Speak to the Instructor

Training@greatoakstreeservices.co.uk

Flexible start dates, expert support, and real results.

Arboriculture Courses

Safe Use of a Manually Fed Wood Chipper

Chainsaw Maintenance and Cross Cutting

Felling and Processing of Small Trees

Ground Based Chainsaw Operator (Combination Course)

Tree Climbing and Aerial Rescue

Using A Chainsaw from a Rope and Harness

Exclusive Online E-Learning Portal

All candidates enrolled in our training and refresher courses gain automatic access to our exclusive Online E-Learning Portal. This comprehensive resource features purpose-built workbooks and video guides, created by our expert trainers and tailored specifically to your needs. Whether you’re preparing for your course or revisiting skills afterward, our portal ensures you have the tools and knowledge to excel.

Comprehensive Training with Ongoing Support

Each course includes full access to our E-Learning portal. A valuable resource designed to support you before, during, and after your practical training. The portal provides:

Workbooks and Guides

Easy-to-follow workbooks and guides to support and reinforce your learning at your own pace.

Video Tutorials

Step-by-step video instructions covering key skills and techniques you’ll need on the job.

Links and Resources

Access to curated links, industry insights, and resources for continuous learning.

Post Training Access

Revisit after you qualify to consolidate your new skills.

Get to know our training team

Director of Great Oaks

Jason, the Director of Great Oaks Tree Services Ltd, brings a wealth of experience to the table. Starting his career in 2006 with a National Diploma in Arboriculture, Jason has worked across various sectors of the arboriculture industry, from grounds maintenance to utility arboriculture.

In 2015, he achieved Qualified Teacher Status and led a college apprenticeship programme, shaping the next generation of arborists. In 2018, Jason founded Great Oaks Tree Services, which has since flourished into a leading name in arboriculture and grounds maintenance in the North West. Expanding his company into training in 2024, Jason continues to drive for excellence across the industry.

Senior Technical Instructor

With over 17 years of experience in forestry and arboriculture, Tom is a seasoned expert in the field. His career began with formal training in arboriculture, then he honed his skills as a climber in New Zealand before returning to the UK to work at the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens and Arboretum in Hampshire. Tom then spent a decade with Forestry England as a technical arborist at Westonbirt, the National Arboretum.

Driven by a passion for training, Tom earned his Certificate in Education and became a Practical Lecturer. He joined the Great Oaks team in 2024, where he excels in providing tailored, hands-on instruction with a strong emphasis on safe working practices. Tom also holds NPTC Assessor status for Land Based Certificates of Competence further underscoring his commitment to excellence in forestry and arboriculture training.

Testimonials

"Tom was brilliant, I thoroughly enjoyed the week."

"The experience was outstanding on last week's course. It was a real pleasure working with Tom, he is an excellent instructor. Would recommend!"

"I came away with a huge amount of confidence and respect for the profession. Top-quality training from people who clearly care."

"Informative, hands-on, and really helped me improve my felling techniques."

"A very positive experience and I've learnt a lot. Thank you!"

"The course structure flowed perfectly...totally worth it."

"The training course fully met all my expectations."

"I really enjoyed getting more confident as the week went on."

"Hands on learning and working all the time which made it more enjoyable and easier to absorb..."

This was my first time on a course and I’d recommend going to Great Oaks 100%

★★★★★ - Brilliant course, a great introduction into chainsaw maintenance and cross cutting.

"I felt very prepared and ready for the test day and passed first time"

"Absolutely fantastic training"

" I was fully immersed in the physical real world of cutting down trees, learning about nature in nature."

"I really can't rate them high enough. Communication was excellent, execution of the training was flawless"

"The trainer is knowledgeable and gave me a lot of information throughout the course."

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Who Are Our Chainsaw and Forestry Courses For?

Whether you’re stepping into the arboriculture industry for the first time or looking to renew your certification, our chainsaw training courses are designed for people at all levels. We support:

Individuals working towards recognised tree surgeon qualifications
Forestry workers and estate managers seeking to update or add NPTC courses
Grounds maintenance teams needing certified chainsaw training
Utility arborists and contractors operating in high-risk environments
Local businesses in Preston, Lancashire, and the wider North West requiring bespoke group training

From beginners looking for their first ‘chainsaw licence’, to experienced climbers and aerial operators wanting to expand their qualifications, our courses are structured to meet real job demands and safety standards.

Why Choose Us for Chainsaw Training near Manchester?

Our Preston training centre serves learners from Manchester and the surrounding areas, combining expert-led tuition with the latest industry standards. We help individuals and teams gain the skills and confidence to work safely in arboriculture and forestry.

As a local training provider with real-world experience, we understand the needs of employers, contractors, and individuals working in tree surgery, land management, and forestry. That’s why we offer nationally recognised City & Guilds NPTC chainsaw courses, and tailor our approach to help you achieve your chainsaw licence efficiently and with confidence.

If you’re based in or around Manchester and want to gain hands-on experience with genuine job-ready skills, we’re here to help you build your future in the arboriculture industry.

Chainsaw Course Enquiries
01772 369694 ✉️ training@greatoakstreeservices.co.uk

Do I need a chainsaw licence to use a chainsaw in the UK?

Yes. While the term “chainsaw licence” isn’t a formal legal document, most employers and insurance providers require you to hold an NPTC certificate of competence before using a chainsaw professionally. Our courses in Preston offer the recognised qualifications you need.

What’s the difference between NPTC and City & Guilds chainsaw courses?

NPTC is part of City & Guilds, and is the awarding body for most practical arboriculture and forestry training in the UK. Each of our courses leads to a Level 2 NPTC qualification that proves your competence to work safely and legally.

How long does it take to qualify as a tree surgeon?

It depends on your goals. Many learners begin with a chainsaw maintenance and cross cutting course, followed by felling small trees, and then progress to aerial qualifications. Some complete these in just a few weeks; others build their tree surgeon qualifications over several months.

Can I train even if I have no previous experience?

Absolutely. Several of our courses have no formal entry requirements, and we work with complete beginners regularly. All we ask is that you have a good level of fitness and provide your own PPE. Our e-learning portal also helps you prepare before you arrive.

Where is your chainsaw training based?

All practical training takes place at our dedicated site in Preston, Lancashire, with felling sites within a short drive. We welcome learners from across Lancashire, the North West, and beyond.

Do you offer group or business bookings?

Yes – we regularly deliver chainsaw training and forestry courses for teams working in estate management, arboriculture, and local government. If you’d like to book a group session, contact us directly and we’ll tailor the training to your needs.

Get Started With Great Oaks Training Chainsaw Courses

Take the first step towards your career in tree surgery or forestry. From ground-based chainsaw qualifications to aerial rescue training, we’ll support you with expert instruction, pre-course learning resources, and post-training advice.

View our available courses or contact our team in Preston to find the right option for you.

Compare Our Chainsaw & Forestry Training Courses for Manchester Learners

Course Name	Duration	Cost	Location	Qualification	E-Learning	Max Candidates	Booking
Woodchipper (NPTC L2)	1 day incl. assessment	£300 inc. VAT	Preston, Lancashire	City & Guilds NPTC Level 2	Yes	4	Book here today
Chainsaw Maintenance & Cross Cutting	2 days + 1 assessment	£672 inc. VAT	Preston, Lancashire	NPTC Level 2 Certificate	Yes	4	Book here today
Felling & Processing Small Trees	3 days + 1 assessment	£967 inc. VAT	Preston, Lancashire & offsite (within 1hr)	NPTC Level 2 Certificate	Yes	2	Book here today
Ground Based Chainsaw Operator	5 days + 1 assessment	£1351 inc. VAT	Preston, Lancashire & offsite (within 1hr)	NPTC Level 2 (2 Certificates)	Yes	2	Book here today
Tree Climbing & Aerial Rescue	5 days + 1 assessment	£1273 inc. VAT	Preston, Lancashire	NPTC Level 2 Certificate	Yes	2	Book here today
Chainsaw from Rope & Harness	3 days + 1 assessment	£967 inc. VAT	Preston, Lancashire	NPTC Level 2 Certificate	Yes	2	Book here today

Not Sure Which Chainsaw Course is Right for You?

If you’re unsure where to begin, we’re here to help. Whether you’re completely new to arboriculture or looking to update your existing ‘chainsaw licence’, our team can recommend the best route based on your current experience and career goals.

All our chainsaw training and forestry courses take place in Preston, ideally located for learners across Lancashire and the North West. With small group sizes, expert trainers, and free access to our exclusive e-learning portal, we make sure every course delivers practical, job-ready skills.