TILHILL and Foresight Sustainable Forestry (FSF) have announced the expansion of the Foresight Sustainable Forestry Skills Training Programme. 

Following the successful launch of the programme in Wales last year, which saw four trainees completing the course, it will be expanded into Scotland this year, ensuring 10 placements will be awarded across both Scotland and Wales.

Working in partnership with Coleg Cambria Llysfasi and Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) to deliver the programme in Wales and Scotland respectively, successful applicants from communities local to FSF’s operations will receive fully-funded training courses which will include forestry-related activities.

Training sessions in Wales will take place in August, September, October and November, comprising of three weekly sessions. The programme in Scotland will take place throughout the month of August. The syllabuses for both programmes offer tractor driving, chainsaw skills, first-aid training and much more, with the addition of harvesting simulator training, quad biking, tree planting and tree protection in Scotland.

David Edwards, forestry director at Tilhill, said: “We are delighted to extend this important programme to Scotland following the success of the pilot scheme in Wales, and to be part of the effort to encourage people into a career which will help reshape the future of our environment and the forest industry.

“The programme offers a fantastic opportunity for people who are interested in gaining the knowledge and hands-on experience they need to build a rewarding career in the sustainable forestry sector. We’re looking for candidates based in Wales and Scotland who are highly motivated, driven, enthusiastic, reliable and adaptable.” 

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This opportunity would be suited to anyone within agriculture, farming or contractor-based roles or anyone who wants to start a career locally within the forestry sector regardless of their previous experience and qualifications. Successful candidates will be assigned a Tilhill mentor to advise on the development of their forestry career. Upon completion of the course, candidates will also be given the opportunity to apply for any available Tilhill vacancies and/or work on FSF’s projects.

To apply, visit www.tilhill.com/careers.