Coppicing & Greenwood Trades
NVQ Level 3 Diploma

Course introduction

Our Level 3 NVQ in Coppicing & Greenwood Trades is designed for those looking to deepen their skills in traditional woodland management and sustainable forestry. Combining practical expertise with national industry-recognised qualifications, this course also includes a Level 3 Certificate in Forestry and Arboriculture as an additional qualification to offer a well-rounded education in sustainable woodland conservation.

With an emphasis on sustainability, health & safety, and ecological responsibility, this course equips you with the skills to maintain productive woodlands, craft high-quality greenwood products, manage natural habitats effectively, whilst learning heritage hedge-laying techniques, and forestry business skills.

Whether you’re pursuing a career in forestry, conservation, or traditional rural crafts, this qualification provides the knowledge, hands-on training, and practical experience needed to thrive.

In partnership with NPTC Group of Colleges.

What will i learn

The qualification is made up of practical modules covering everything from coppice restoration and woodland management to product creation and market evaluation. All modules have an emphasis on sustainability and health & safety, including risk assessments, safe equipment use, environmental impact mitigation, and adherence to relevant legislation. You will cover the following:

• Maintain Coppice Health and Productivity – Learn how to sustain and enhance coppice systems through planting, layering, and pest management. Maintain coppice productivity, health and density & enhance biodiversity.
• Health & Safety in Forestry – Identify hazards, complete risk assessments, understand accident reporting, first aid protocols, control measures and environmental impact mitigation, and comply with safety regulations. Encourage a positive safety culture in forestry and timber workplaces.
• Plan and Evaluate Coppice Management – Develop sustainable strategies for woodland productivity, biodiversity, and timber markets, looking at silviculture, species selection, yield forecasting and protective measures against damage.
• Develop a Woodland Management Plan – Learn to create woodland management plans by assessing sites, creating work and monitoring programmes, and identifying potential impacts, hazards. Consider legal responsibilities, protected woodland species and public access.
• Construct a Greenwood Product to Client Specification – Design, build, and finish traditional greenwood products with durability in mind (e.g. a chair).
• Lay a Hedge – Focus on traditional hedge-laying techniques for biodiversity and landscape preservation. Cover species selection, regional hedge-laying styles, and identifying trees for retention.
• Evaluate Markets and Trends for the Sale of Forest and Woodland Products and Services – Learn market research techniques for forest products, including pricing, contract management, and profitability strategies, while understanding economic trends.
• Understanding Woodland Habitat Management – An introduction to woodland ecology, management strategies, and conservation techniques. Create and assess woodland management plans while balancing ecological, economic, and legal considerations.
• Identify the Signs of Pests and Diseases of Trees – Recognise symptoms, understand disease life cycles, and implement eco-friendly control methods.
• Understand and Carry Out Forest and Woodland Skills – Gain hands-on experience in fencing, drainage, vegetation control, and tree planting.

Why study COPPICING?

Students will study in beautiful and unique woodland settings. This course is ideal for students who want to deepen their current knowledge & experience of working in forestry while opening doors to further study and employment opportunities.

After this course, students may be able to:

• Progress to Level 4 and above qualifications in Coppicing or Forestry e.g. Foundation Degree/Higher National Diploma
• Use this qualification towards entry to the BMC undergraduate course
• Use this recognised qualification and transferable skills for employment opportunities in the trees and timber sector
• Work in the forestry & woodland management sector as a Coppice Worker, Forestry Operative, Arboricultural Officer, Forestry Officer, or Woodland Manager
• Gain work or use this qualification to gain entry in the conservation & environmental sector as a Conservation Ranger, Estate Worker, or work towards a Forestry Environmental Consultant
• Work in tree care as a Tree Surgeon, Arborist or Woodland Surveyor
• Start a career in greenwood crafts and traditional skills as a self-employed or salaried Craftsperson, Woodworker, or Hedge Layer
• Go down the business route and start a career in timber & woodland product sales!
• Set up your own businesses in coppicing, greenwood crafts, woodland consultancy, or tree surgery.

This recognised qualification opens doors to careers or further study in forestry, conservation, rural crafts, and arboriculture, with opportunities to work for forestry companies, conservation organisations, local councils, national parks, estates, environmental charities, or as a self-employed professional.

Why study at BMC

• Our course tutors are inspired teachers with extensive experience from a broad spectrum of coppicing and greenwood working, bringing up to date techniques and unique knowledge.
• No exams! You will produce a portfolio of evidence throughout the year and be assessed via practical observations and oral tests.
• In unque learning environments, learn real-world practical skills that will help you achieve your goals in the future. As a part of your course, you will undertake the BMC Change in Practice Level 3 module, which will enable you to develop your understanding and skills around sustainable development and employability. In this module, you will cover a diverse range of topics, such as ecosystems and biodiversity, active citizenship and project development.
• Your learning experience will be enhanced through practical activities, field trips, guest lectures, and projects relating to your subject.
• Students under the age of 18 without Grade 4/ C or above in English and Maths at GCSE level will receive additional teaching and support to study for these qualifications alongside their NVQ.

*course content may be subject to change