Apprentice Arborist in Old Windsor

This role supports development into a qualified Arborist, gaining practical skills and experience on the Estate. You’ll work in a team using equipment such as chainsaws and woodchippers, operating outdoors at height in all weathers. The 18‑month apprenticeship leads to a Level 2 Arborist qualification.

Hours and duration

• Hours: Monday to Friday, 7.30am to 4.30pm (plus two weekends per year). 40 hours per week.
• Start date: Monday 10 August 2026
• Duration: 1 year 6 months

Work

Most of your apprenticeship is spent working. You’ll learn on the job by getting hands-on experience.

What you'll do at work

• Support the team to deliver the work programme by undertaking a range of activities including chainsaw work, aerial tree work, pruning.
• Use tools and machinery safely (training will be provided).
• Follow health and safety guidance, including risk assessments, safe systems of work, reporting accidents or concerns.
• Follow The Crown Estate’s policies (e.g. attendance, punctuality, reporting absence).
• Complete apprenticeship learning activities, including on-the-job and off-the-job training, maintaining learning logs.
• Work well as part of a team and build positive relationships.
• Follow instructions and ask for help when needed.
• Provide a good level of service to visitors and colleagues.
• Support events and engagement activities when required.
• Contribute to conservation and sustainability work.
• Represent Windsor Great Park in a professional and positive way.
• Demonstrate The Crown Estate behaviours at all times - working Better Together through inclusive collaboration; showing Candour with Care by being honest, respectful, and constructively challenging; acting Resourcefully by seeking innovative, efficient solutions; and being Accountable through clear ownership, reliability, and follow through.

Where you'll work

Windsor Great Park, Windsor, SL4 2HT

Training

Apprenticeships include time away from working for specialist training. You’ll study to gain professional knowledge and skills.

• Recognise health and safety needs onsite and work safely.
• Complete site-specific risk assessments and emergency action plans.
• Select appropriate equipment for tree work operations.
• Set out workplace signage (highway & non-highway) and assist with traffic control.
• Process tree work arisings using appropriate machinery.
• Maintain and take appropriate care of tools, equipment and other onsite factors (such as customer or public buildings etc.).
• Recognise a variety of tree species using common names.
• Carry out a range of formative pruning operations.
• Carry out branch removal up to 200mm diameter with hand tools (target pruning for final cut).
• Fell and process small trees up to 380mm diameter.
• Support aerial tree workers with transfer of equipment for aerial tree work operations.
• Perform an aerial rescue of a colleague from a rope and harness.
• Work safely at height in the tree under supervision.
• Communicate technical information about arboricultural operations to fellow team members, clients and other stakeholders as required.

Requirements

• GCSEs: English (grade 4/C or above), Maths (grade 4/C or above).
• Share if you have other relevant qualifications and industry experience. The apprenticeship can be adjusted to reflect what you already know.

Skills

• Logical initiative.
• Physical fitness.
• Basic numeracy & measuring.
• Follow instructions accurately.
• Use tools safely.
• Problem-solving & initiative.
• Willing to work outdoors.
• Flexible and adaptable.

Other requirements

• Aged 16 or over and have completed year 11.
• Not in full time education.
• Have the right to work in the UK.
• Able to travel to Berkshire College of Agriculture (BCA), Maidenhead SL6 6QR one day every other week.
• Able to travel to Windsor Great Park – working hours are 7.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday.
• Security clearance in addition to standard BPSS checks must be maintained for this role.
• Must be able to work two weekends each year to support the wider Estate (overtime or time off in lieu offered).
• Must be able to undertake a largely manual role outdoors in all weathers.

About this employer

The Crown Estate is a prestigious organisation that manages an extensive portfolio of properties across the UK, including historic landmarks, retail spaces, and natural environments. We are committed to excellence, sustainability, and providing exceptional experiences for our visitors. As part of our team, you will contribute to maintaining the high standards and reputation of The Crown Estate.

Company benefits

• Life assurance.
• Employee Assistance programme.
• Cycle to work loan.

After this apprenticeship

At the end of the programme, the apprentice will be considered for any permanent vacancies. Please note permanent positions require someone to have a full driving licence.

The contact for this apprenticeship is: THE WINDSOR FOREST COLLEGES GROUP. The reference code for this apprenticeship is VAC2000034166.

Apply now. Closes in 3 days (Tuesday 9 June 2026). After signing in, you’ll apply for this apprenticeship on the company's website.