Tree work07884 274693Training01772 369694
At Great Oaks Tree Services & Training Academy, we deliver some of the most comprehensive chainsaw courses in Preston and across Lancashire – designed for new entrants, upskillers, and seasoned professionals alike.
All our chainsaw training is:
NPTC certificated, delivered by expert assessors
Backed by years of real-world tree surgery and forestry experience
Supported by an exclusive online e-learning portal with video guides, printable workbooks, and post-course resources
Held in authentic woodland sites, giving you hands-on, real-world practice
From basic maintenance and cross cutting to advanced tree climbing and aerial chainsaw use, our training centre offers every step you need to become fully qualified, and stay safe on the job.
Whether you’re a contractor, employer, or aspiring arborist, we’ll help you build confidence and competence with nationally recognised certification.
Whether you’re aiming for a career in arboriculture or want to work safely on commercial or domestic sites, becoming a qualified chainsaw operator isn’t just recommended – it’s essential. In the UK, using a chainsaw professionally requires certification such as the NPTC Level 2 – a legal and practical safeguard for employers, insurers, and your own safety.
At Great Oaks Tree Services, we’ve developed a clear, structured pathway for people across Preston and Lancashire to get certified, starting from absolute beginner through to advanced rope and harness work.
Chainsaw Course Enquiries 01772 369694 ✉️ training@greatoakstreeservices.co.uk or Contact us form
Before felling or climbing, you need to understand the machine. Our Chainsaw Maintenance and Cross Cutting course teaches you:
How to maintain petrol and battery-powered saws
How to use lifting aids and stack timber
Safe, clean cross cutting techniques
Duration: 2 training days + 1 assessment
Cost: £470 inc. VAT
Outcome: NPTC Level 2 Certificate of Competence
Once you’ve mastered your saw, it’s time to learn how to fell safely. The Felling and Processing Small Trees course covers:
Field maintenance
Felling techniques up to 380mm diameter
Snedding, rolling aids, and hung-up trees
Duration: 3 days + 1 assessment
Cost: £672 inc. VAT
Outcome: NPTC Level 2 Felling Certification
If you want to streamline the process, book our Combined Chainsaw and Felling Course. In just 6 days, you earn both certifications, ideal for employers or career changers looking to move fast.
| Course | Duration | Certification | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ground-Based Chainsaw Operator | 5 days + 1 assessment | Maintenance + Felling (up to 380mm) | £1,104 inc. VAT |
To work in trees rather than around them, you’ll need climbing certifications:
Both are taught by NPTC qualified trainers with extensive field and teaching experience – including work on national infrastructure projects.
Our courses are delivered in and around Preston, with expert instruction and real woodland environments. You’ll also receive access to our online training portal, featuring:
Video guides
Printable workbooks
Post-course access for refreshers
| Role | Ideal Path |
|---|---|
| New starter in arboriculture | Combined Ground-Based Chainsaw Operator |
| Landscaper adding chainsaw work | Chainsaw Maintenance and Cross Cutting |
| Employer upskilling staff | Bespoke group packages |
| Aspiring climbing arborist | CS38 + CS39 Certification Route |
We offer flexible dates, group bookings, and expert support before and after training. Want to discuss your goals or book directly?
👉 Contact the Training Centre
📞 01772 369694
✉️ training@greatoakstreeservices.co.uk
Great Oaks Tree Services & Training Academy is based in Kirkham, near Preston, at the heart of Lancashire. We’re ideally located for learners across the North West looking for expert-led, accredited chainsaw courses close to home.
We regularly welcome trainees from:
Preston
Blackpool
Chorley
Blackburn
Lancaster
Southport
Burnley
Leyland
Whether you’re searching for a chainsaw course near Preston, a tree surgery qualification in Lancashire, or want to become an NPTC qualified operator, you will find an accessible site, experienced instructors and a supportive training environment.
01772 369694 ✉️ training@greatoakstreeservices.co.uk
Careers
Climbing, grounds maintenance and utility work.Climbing, grounds and utility work.
Arboricultural Association Approved Contractor.
Last minuteAvailability
Starts Monday 19 October 2026
3 days plus 1 for assessment
£9671 place
Entry requirements: Ground Based Chainsaw Operator and Tree Climbing and Aerial Rescue
Book this date, Using a Chainsaw from a Rope and HarnessOr call the training office on 01772 369694
