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Website Editor • April 15, 2019

Investing in the Future of Arboriculture: The Rise of Apprenticeships and Mentoring.

The arboricultural industry is experiencing a shift — not just in the trees we care for, but in the way we grow our workforce. As demand for skilled professionals increases across the UK, so too does the importance of mentoring, apprenticeships, and clear career progression pathways.

At Hamps Valley Ltd, we believe that developing new talent is just as vital as managing mature woodlands. That’s why we’re proud to support the next generation of arborists — including our own first-year apprentice, who is currently completing his studies through Myerscough College, one of the UK’s leading providers of arboricultural training.

🌳 Why the Industry Needs New Talent

The UK arboricultural sector faces a skills shortage. An ageing workforce, increasing demand for tree management, and growing environmental challenges mean we need fresh hands — and fresh thinking — more than ever.

Apprenticeships offer a practical and sustainable solution:

Hands-on experience from day one.
Formal qualifications alongside real-world learning.
A chance to build strong, long-term careers in a dynamic industry.

📘 Our Commitment to Apprenticeships

We currently have a first-year apprentice working as part of our team. He’s enrolled in an Arboriculture Apprenticeship through Myerscough College, where he combines on-site experience with classroom-based learning in subjects like:

Tree biology and identification
Aerial rescue and climbing techniques
Machinery use and maintenance
Tree risk and pest management

We’ve built his training into our daily operations, giving him the chance to learn not just how to do the job — but how to do it safely, professionally, and with pride.

🌟 The Power of Mentorship

Apprenticeships aren't just about skills — they’re about people. Our experienced team members act as mentors, offering support, feedback, and guidance every step of the way. Whether it’s demonstrating the safe use of a chainsaw or explaining the reasoning behind a pruning decision, that shared knowledge makes all the difference.

Mentoring also gives our senior staff the opportunity to reflect on their own practices, pass on years of experience, and help shape the kind of industry they want to see.

🚀 Looking Ahead: Career Progression in Arboriculture

The pathway from apprentice to arborist is clearer than it’s ever been, and the opportunities are growing:

Level 2–4 qualifications in arboriculture and forestry
Specialisms in consultancy, plant health, or urban tree management
Routes into supervisory and management roles
Continuous professional development (CPD) and industry certification

At Hamps Valley Ltd, we’re not just planting trees — we’re planting careers. By investing in apprenticeships and fostering a culture of mentorship, we’re helping ensure a stronger, safer, and more sustainable future for arboriculture.

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Understanding Tree Health

By trees • July 1, 2019

At Hamps Valley Ltd, we know that trees are more than just a part of the landscape—they’re vital to our environment, providing oxygen, habitats, and natural beauty. But, like any living organism, trees are susceptible to health problems that can compromise their structural integrity, safety, and longevity. That’s why tree health assessments are at the heart of what we do. The Growing Need for Tree Health Assessments Recent years have seen an increase in factors that threaten tree health, from the spread of invasive pests and diseases to the effects of climate change. Here are some of the pressing issues facing trees today: Emerald Ash Borer (EAB): This invasive beetle has decimated ash trees across the UK, leaving landscapes vulnerable to ecological imbalances and safety risks. Ash Dieback: Caused by the fungal pathogen Hymenoscyphus fraxineus, this disease is expected to kill a large proportion of ash trees in the UK, posing safety concerns as weakened trees are more likely to fail. Extreme Weather: Climate change has led to more frequent storms and heatwaves, increasing the risk of wind damage and drought stress for trees. Soil Compaction: Urbanization has caused significant soil degradation, impacting root health and tree stability. Why Tree Health Assessments Are Essential Tree health assessments allow arborists to identify potential problems early, helping property owners, land managers, and local authorities make informed decisions about tree care and safety. Here are a few key reasons why regular assessments are crucial: ● Early Detection of Diseases and Pests: Identifying issues like fungal infections, decay, or pest infestations early can prevent widespread damage and costly removals. ● Structural Integrity Checks: Weak branches or decay inside the trunk can lead to sudden tree failure, posing risks to people and property. ● Environmental Benefits: Healthy trees contribute to biodiversity, reduce urban heat, and improve air quality. Assessments help ensure these benefits are preserved. Our Approach to Tree Health Assessments At Hamps Valley Ltd, we use a combination of cutting-edge technology and expert knowledge to assess tree health. Tools like the Arborsonic 3D Tomography Kit allow us to peer inside a tree’s structure without causing damage, identifying hidden decay or cavities. Additionally, our consultants assess pest and disease risks, and evaluate the tree’s biomechanics to provide a comprehensive picture of its health. Taking Action: What You Can Do If you manage trees on your property, here’s how you can protect their health: ● Schedule Regular Inspections: Annual assessments help catch problems early. ● Address Storm Damage Promptly: Fallen limbs or cracks caused by extreme weather should be inspected and treated quickly. ● Encourage Biodiversity: Deadwood, when safely positioned, can provide essential habitats for wildlife and fungi. Partner with Hamps Valley Ltd for Expert Tree Care Tree health is a shared responsibility, and we’re here to help you care for your trees. Whether you need a routine health assessment, guidance on managing diseased trees, or advice on urban tree care, our team of experienced arborists is ready to assist.