Training Course

Ground Based Chainsaw Operator (Combination of Chainsaw Maintenance and Cross Cutting and Felling and Processing Small Trees)

Available Dates

2025

2 x spaces

21-25 April  + 1 day for assessment

£1104

4 x spaces

28 April-2 May  + 1 day for assessment

£1104

4 x spaces

26-30 May  + 1 day for assessment

£1104

4 x spaces

23-27 June  + 1 day for assessment

£1104

Course Description

Ground Based Chainsaw Operator 
5 days + 1 for assessment – Max 4 Candidates 
Qualifications:
NPTC Level 2 Certificate of Competence in Chainsaw Maintenance and Cross Cutting
NPTC Level 2 Certificate of Competence in Felling and Processing Trees up to 380mm
£1104 inc. Vat

This course is designed to provide trainees with the necessary skills for efficiently and safely maintaining chainsaws, performing a variety of chainsaw cross-cutting techniques, and the skills needed to safely fell and process trees with a diameter of up to 380mm.

The course will cover the following:

  • Health and Safety, including relevant legislation and risk assessment
  • Chainsaw maintenance in the workshop and in the field
  • Manual handling
  • Use of battery and petrol-powered chainsaws
  • Introduction to a range of felling, lifting, and rolling aids
  • Refresher of cross cutting techniques 
  • Various felling techniques and their applications
  • Branch removal/snedding techniques
  • Safely taking down hung-up trees

Entry Requirements

As this is an entry level course, there are no prerequisites to join. However, trainees must provide their own PPE and have a good level of fitness. Great Oaks Training reserves the right to refuse training to any person we consider to be unfit, for any reason. 

All trainers are first aid trained; however, we advise that all candidates hold a current recognised first aid qualification before commencing training.

Equipment Requirements

Trainees must provide:

  • Personal Protective Equipment – PPE must be purchased from a reputable supplier, click here to read more.
    • Safety Helmet – Groundwork (HSE Recommended EN 397 with ear protection to EN 352 -3 & mesh visor to EN 1731) 
    • Chainsaw protective Gloves (HSE Recommended to EN 381-7)
    • Chainsaw Trousers (HSE Recommended to EN 381-5) Type C are advised if planning to progress onto Aerial use of Chainsaw.
    • Chainsaw Boots (HSE Recommended to EN 381-3)
    • Great Oaks Training reserves the right to withdraw the training to candidates if the PPE or equipment is not in a safe condition
  • Chainsaw – subject to inspection before use. (Equipment may be rented from Great Oaks Training, contact us for more information.) 
    • Maximum guidebar length 15”/38cm
    • In good working order.
  • Personal Trauma First Aid Kit – Purpose built kits can be purchased online, click here to read more.
  • Specific felling equipment such as felling leavers, wedges, measuring tape etc will be provided by us and the use of which will be included in course fees.

Additional

Due to the nature of the training, felling sites will be located within one hour drive from the training centre. Personal transport is essential.

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

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.

Enquire About This Course

Group Bookings Available

You can book a training course as part of a group or corporate team. Email us direct for more information