A TEENAGE arborist has been awarded the job of a lifetime after impressing managers from a leading Canadian tree care company

Kieran Jackson, 18, will head to Vancouver in the summer after being spotted during a UK-scouting mission by bosses from British Columbia Plant Health Care. 

The Moulton College learner undertook a successful tree climbing assessment and an interview, before being awarded a trainee position with the firm. 

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“We were visited at the college by John Marsden from British Columbia Plant Health Care who was over in the UK to recruit new talent to the company," Kieran, from Kettering, said. "I was impressed with what John shared including the environmental work they do to preserve trees. When he offered interviews to students, I took up the chance straight away.”

John, originally from Cheshire, said: “I’m from the UK myself and moved to Canada to work for BC Plant Health Care. Attracting new talent like Kieran means we are guaranteed a high standard of skills and knowledge. 

"Moving to Canada is a really exciting opportunity for Kieran and we are looking forward to welcoming him in the summer.”

Moulton College offers full-time Level 2 and Level 3 courses in forestry and arboriculture for those looking to develop the skills and knowledge required to manage, cultivate and care for trees, including ecology, equipment use, aerial climbing and ground-based techniques. 

Forestry Journal: Kieran and his lecturer, Hayley ClaytonKieran and his lecturer, Hayley Clayton (Image: Supplied)

Hayley Clayton, arboriculture lecturer at Moulton College, said: "There’s a big skills deficit in the industry so students choosing to study arboriculture and forestry are in huge demand. At Moulton, we develop the skills necessary for those looking to pursue careers in the sector in a welcoming environment."