Capel Manor College offers an extensive selection of short courses in Horticulture and Arboriculture. Ranging from basic tree climbing techniques to chainsaw training and tractor driving (to name just a few), these courses are designed to provide specialist training and skills updating you or your employees to bring them in-line with rigorous industry standards. All courses are run by qualified instructors, most of whom are members of the LANTRA professional register, and are run periodically each month ranging from 1 to 5 days duration, but there’s a limit on the number of candidates due to the nature of the programmes so early application is advisable.
Our short courses are predominantly available at our Enfield centre which, set in 30 acres of grounds, offers its own first-rate training sites including our own gardens and farm making it an ideal location for land based training. We can however, on request, re-locate to one of our other centres at Gunnersbury Park, Regent’s Park, and Crystal Palace as long as these sites are deemed suitable for the specific course. We can also, under special arrangements and if suitable, carry out the training on your premises.
We can also provide courses to suit your particular needs and requirements so please contact the Short Course Coordinator to discuss.
Click here to download our Short Courses Application Form
Click here to download Chainsaw Framework pdf
Here is an overview of the courses we currently offer:
Click on the links below for course dates and fees.
New Short Courses
NPTC / City & Guilds – 0141-01 Award in the Safe Use of Veterinary Medicines
The aim of this short 2-day course is to prepare students for practical skill and vital underpinning knowledge assessment in the safe administration and management of medicines for animals.
NPTC / City & Guilds – Level 2 Award in Basic Stockmanship and Welfare (0141-02)
The aim of this short 4-day course is to prepare students for practical skill and vital underpinning knowledge assessment in the application of welfare principles to livestock care and management.
LANTRA ITA Chainsaw maintenance, cross cutting and basic felling (up to 200 mm diameter)
This course covers basic chainsaw maintenance in workshop and field conditions. It also covers the felling and cross cutting of timber no larger than 200mm.
Total Cost £500
To book this course contact Capel Manor Employer Services on 08456 122 122 Ext 245
No events
CS30 Chainsaw Maintenance & Cross-Cutting
This core unit covers the routine maintenance required for petrol driven chainsaws in workshop and field conditions including safe starting procedures and pre-work checks, on site preparation and also the cross-cutting and stacking of timber produce.
Two consecutive days training to NPTC standard, followed by a one day NPTC assessment (to be arranged).
The module requires reading and interpreting of information such as safety instructions and technical knowledge and prepares participants for NPTC independent assessment. This intensive practical course requires a good level of physical fitness and an ability to study written technical information.
CS30 Total Cost £495 (course fee £310, NPTC registration and assessment fee £150, equipment hire fee £35)
A security deposit is required for the use of college equipment. Details provided at time of booking.
To book this course contact Capel Manor Employer Services on 08456 122 122 Ext 245
| Course Date | Venue | Assessment Date |
|---|---|---|
| 21 May 2012 - 22 May 2012 | Enfield Centre | 31 May 2012 |
| 21 May 2012 - 22 May 2012 | Crystal Palace Park Centre | To be advised |
| 24 May 2012 - 25 May 2012 | Horsenden Farm | |
| 25 Jun 2012 - 26 Jun 2012 | Enfield Centre | 5 July 2012 |
| 23 Jul 2012 - 24 Jul 2012 | Enfield Centre | 2 August 2012 |
CS31-Felling of small trees max. Recommended guide bar length of 380 mm (3 days)
This course is for those anticipating working in professional forestry, amenity or utility arboriculture activities and likely to be felling trees up to 15” (380mm) in diameter. Three consecutive days training to NPTC standard, followed by a one day NPTC assessment (to be arranged).
The module requires reading and interpreting of information such as safety instructions and technical knowledge and prepares participants for NPTC independent assessment. This intensive practical course requires a good level of physical fitness and an ability to study written technical information.
CS30 must be achieved before taking this course.
CS31 Total Cost £503 (course fee £330, NPTC registration and assessment fee £138, equipment hire fee £35)
A security deposit is required for the use of college equipment. Details provided at time of booking.
To book this course contact Capel Manor Employer Services on 08456 122 122 Ext 245
| Course Date | Venue | Assessment Date |
|---|---|---|
| 23 May 2012 - 25 May 2012 | Enfield Centre | 1 June 2012 |
| 27 Jun 2012 - 29 Jun 2012 | Enfield Centre | 6 July 2012 |
| 25 Jul 2012 - 27 Jul 2012 | Enfield Centre | 3 Aug 2012 |
Combined CS30/31 (5 days) - This unit covers both CS30 and CS31 during a 5 day training course.
Combined CS30/31 (5 days) – covers both CS30 and CS31 during a 5 day training course.
CS30: Routine maintenance required for petrol driven chainsaws in workshop and field conditions including safe starting procedures and pre-work checks also the cross-cutting and stacking of timber produce.
CS31: Felling and processing of small trees whose effective diameter at felling height is between 200 mm and 380 mm.
CS30 – Maintain and Operate the Chainsaw
Learning Outcomes
The candidate will be able to:
1. Identify, inspect and comment on key parts of the chain saw
2. Prepare the chain saw for work safely without risk to themselves, other people or the environment
3. Carry out daily and routine maintenance on the chain saw
4. Operate the chainsaw safely and effectively and comfortably in accordance with the practical risk assessment
5. Operate the chainsaw safely without risk to themselves, other people and the environment
6. State the identified knowledge that underpins understanding of operating a chainsaw
7. Identify the risk assessment and emergency procedures on a work site
The assessment is divided into 2 compulsory units
• Unit 30.1 Maintenance of the Chainsaw
• Unit 30.2 On-site preparation and basic crosscutting
Candidates must successfully achieve all Assessment Activities unless otherwise specified.
CS31 – Fell & Process Small Trees
Learning Outcomes
The candidate will be able to:
1. Identify the Risk Assessment and Emergency procedures on a work site
2. Select and prepare equipment required for safe and effective felling
3. Fell small trees safely and accurately using an appropriate method
4. Fell trees weighted in direction of fall using a safe technique
5. Remove branches safely in a manner appropriate to the branching habit
6. Crosscut stems accurately and safely to a given length and diameter specification
7. Stack timber using appropriate manual handling techniques
8. Take down small hung-up trees safely using appropriate hand tools
The assessment contains 4 compulsory parts:
Part 1 Fell Small Trees
Part 2 Remove branches by appropriate method
Part 3 Crosscut felled trees
Part 4 Takedown of hung-up trees using hand tools
Course Duration: 5 days
Combined CS30/CS31 Total Cost £918 (course fee £595, NPTC registration and assessment fee £288, equipment hire fee £35)
A security deposit is required for the use of college equipment. Details provided at time of booking.
To book this course contact Capel Manor Employer Services on 08456 122 122 Ext 245
| Course Date | Venue | Assessment Date |
|---|---|---|
| 28 May 2012 - 1 Jun 2012 | Enfield Centre | 12-13 June 2012 |
| 11 Jun 2012 - 15 Jun 2012 | Enfield Centre | 21-22 June 2012 |
| 2 Jul 2012 - 6 Jul 2012 | Enfield Centre | 12-13 July 2012 |
| 16 Jul 2012 - 20 Jul 2012 | Enfield Centre | 26-27 July 2012 |
CS32-Felling of medium sized trees (3 days)
Three consecutive days training to NPTC standard followed by one days’ NPTC assessment (to be arranged). This course is for anyone required to felling trees larger than the guide bar length. Some topics covered include:
• Health and Safety
• Assess trees for hazards and risks
• Techniques and aids to taken down trees
• Handle and stack timber
• Take down of trees using a winch
The module requires reading and interpreting of information such as safety instructions and technical knowledge, and prepares participants for NPTC independent assessment. This intensive practical course requires a good level of physical fitness and an ability to study written technical information.
CS30/31 must be achieved before taking this course
CS32 Total Cost £622 (course fee £380, NPTC registration and assessment fee £207, equipment hire fee £35)
A security deposit is required for the use of college equipment. Details provided at time of booking.
| Course Date | Venue | Assessment Date |
|---|---|---|
| 31 Oct 2012 - 2 Nov 2012 | Enfield Centre | 11 Nov 2012 |
CS37 Breakdown of medium sized broadleaved crowns max. Recommended guide bar length 380 mm
This unit covers medium sized open grown crowns of felled trees or similar crown material detached from the main stem.
| COURSE | DATES |
COURSE
FEE |
NPTC
REGISTRATION/
ASSESSMENT
FEE |
LOAN FEE |
OVERALL
COST |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CS37: Breakdown of medium sized broadleaved crowns maximum recommended guide bar length 380mm (15") -2 days | On demand | TBA | £35 | TBA | |
CS38 Basic tree climbing and perform aerial rescue (5 days)
This course is for those wishing to climb trees and perform aerial rescue. Topics covered include: regulations, industry best practice, climbing equipment, access and movement techniques within trees to achieve work positions are all included in this course. Five consecutive days training to NPTC standard, followed by a one day NPTC assessment (to be arranged).
Course Duration: 5 days
CS38 Total Cost £768 (course fee £603, NPTC registration and assessment fee £130, equipment hire fee £35)
A security deposit is required for the use of college equipment. Details provided at time of booking.
To book this course contact Capel Manor Employer Services on 08456 122 122 Ext 245
| Course Date | Venue | Assessment Date |
|---|---|---|
| 11 Jun 2012 - 15 Jun 2012 | Crystal Palace Park Centre | To be advised |
| 18 Jun 2012 - 22 Jun 2012 | Horsenden Farm | To be advised |
| 18 Jun 2012 - 22 Jun 2012 | Enfield Centre | 28 June 2012 |
| 9 Jul 2012 - 13 Jul 2012 | Enfield Centre | 19 July 2012 |
CS39 Operate a chainsaw from a rope and harness (2 days)
This course is for those wishing to operate a chainsaw from a rope and harness. Two consecutive days training to NPTC standard, followed by a one day NPTC assessment (to be arranged). Participants must hold CS30, CS31 and CS38 certification before applying for this course.
Course Duration: 2 days
CS39 Total Cost £631 (course fee £470, NPTC registration and assessment fee £126, equipment hire fee £35)
A security deposit is required for the use of college equipment. Details provided at time of booking.
To book this course contact Capel Manor Employer Services on 08456 122 122 Ext 245
No events
CS40 Carry out pruning operations (2 days)
This unit covers the use of chainsaws or other pruning tools working for a rope and harness in conjunction with a grounds person in medium sized to open grown trees.
| COURSE | DATES |
COURSE
FEE |
NPTC
REGISTRATION/
ASSESSMENT
FEE |
LOAN FEE |
OVERALL
COST |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CS40 : Carry out pruning operations maximum recommended guide bar length 380mm (15") - 2 days | On demand | £560 | TBA | £35 | £595+NPTC Fees |
CS41 Carry out dismantling operations (5 days)
This unit covers the use of a chainsaw and lowering equipment whilst working from a rope and harness in conjunction with a grounds person in medium sized open trees. This unit also includes the use of climbing irons.
| COURSE | DATES |
COURSE
FEE |
NPTC
REGISTRATION/
ASSESSMENT
FEE |
LOAN FEE |
OVERALL
COST |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CS41: Carry out dismantling operations 5 days |
On demand | £594 | TBA | £35 | £629+NPTC Fees |
CS45 Arboricultural ground worker (2 days)
This unit covers the operations typically expected of the grounds person ie working with the climber and setting out the work site.
| COURSE | DATES |
COURSE
FEE |
NPTC
REGISTRATION/
ASSESSMENT
FEE |
LOAN FEE |
OVERALL
COST |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CS45: Arboricultural ground worker | On demand | £500 | TBA | £35 | £500+NPTC Fees |
Lantra Basic Tree Inspection (1 day)
A one day basic course aimed at highway inspectors, park rangers, general estate workers and assistant tree inspectors. The course is designed to give training on identifying common signs and symptoms that may lead to tree or limb failure and methods of reporting this information to people more suitably qualified to make final decisions on safety.
Total Cost £200
To book this course contact Capel Manor Employer Services on 08456 122 122 Ext 245
No events
Lantra ITA: Professional Tree Inspection (3 days)
This course aims to provide specific tree inspection training at an advanced level for competent arboriculturists to enable them to identify defects from ground levels, from a climbed inspection or inspection aided by the use of a Mobile Elevated Working Platform. It is aimed at experienced and qualified arboriculturists with an in-depth knowledge of plant and arboricultural science and who should be thoroughly experienced in carrying out tree inspection and survey.
Total Cost £450
To book this course contact Capel Manor Employer Services on 08456 122 122 Ext 245
No events
Brushcutting (strimmer) operations (2 days)
This two day course is for experienced operators and covers routine maintenance, operational techniques and safe use. The course is suitable for commercial and domestic use.
Participants will not be allowed to start the course without steel toe capped boots or shoes and work clothes which provide full cover for arms and legs.
Total Cost £450 (course fee £300, NPTC registration and assessment fee £115, equipment hire fee £35)
A security deposit is required for the use of college equipment. Details provided at time of booking.
To book this course contact Capel Manor Employer Services on 08456 122 122 Ext 245
No events
Brushwood chipper (1 day course)
This course is designed for people who operate brushwood chippers in a work-based environment. The course focuses on health & safety procedures, maintain and use your chipper effectively via various techniques.
Brushwood Chipper Operations Total Cost £450 (course fee £280, NPTC registration and assessment fee £135, equipment hire fee £35)
A security deposit is required for the use of college equipment. Details provided at time of booking.
To book this course contact Capel Manor Employer Services on 08456 122 122 Ext 245
No events
Certificate of competence in the thorough examination of arboricultural equipment LOLER ( 3 days)
This course is designed for people who are required to inspect arboricultural equipment under LOLER requirements: pre use checks, inspection, record keeping storage and transport of equipment. .It will allow the candidate to be aware of a range of personal protective equipment and other equipment appropriate to working at height in arboricultural operations.
| COURSE | DATES |
COURSE
FEE |
NPTC
REGISTRATION/
ASSESSMENT
FEE |
LOAN FEE |
OVERALL
COST |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
LOLER: Certificate of competence in the through examination of Arboricultural equipment |
|||||
| 18th - 20thApril 2011 | £450 | TBA | None | £450+NPTC fees | |
A02 Individual tree protection ( 1 day)
This course will show the different options to protect different size/type of trees.
| COURSE | DATES |
COURSE
FEE |
NPTC
REGISTRATION/
ASSESSMENT
FEE |
LOAN FEE |
OVERALL
COST |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
AO2: Individual tree protection |
|||||
| 30th November 2010 | £150 | TBA | £35 | £185+NPTC fees | |
Horticulture certified short courses
PA1/PA6A Foundation Module (PA1) and Hand Held Sprayers (PA6A) (3 days)
PA1- Foundation Module
This module is necessary for anyone involved with pesticide use. Topics covered include legislation, pesticide preparation, record keeping, environmental safety pesticides labels and regulations. This is all in compliance with regulations and directives from the Health & Safety Executive. Calculations and interpreting information is an integral part of the training.
PA6 – Hand Held Applicator
This module is designed for people who apply pesticides from a knapsack sprayer including application to water using hydraulic nozzle or rotary atomiser type sprayers. Some of the topics covered are preparation of equipment, calibration and record keeping.
Total Cost £450 (course fee £270, NPTC registration and assessment fee £170, equipment hire fee £10)
A security deposit is required for the use of college equipment. Details provided at time of booking.
To book this course contact Capel Manor Employer Services on 08456 122 122 Ext 245
| Course Date | Venue | Assessment Date |
|---|---|---|
| 23 May 2012 - 25 May 2012 | Gunnersbury Park Centre | 29-30 May 2012 |
| 30 May 2012 - 1 Jun 2012 | Enfield Centre | 12-13 June 2012 |
| 20 Jun 2012 - 22 Jun 2012 | Enfield Centre | 26-27 June 2012 |
| 11 Jul 2012 - 13 Jul 2012 | Enfield Centre | 17-18 July 2012 |
| 8 Aug 2012 - 10 Aug 2012 | Enfield Centre | To be advised |
Certificate of competence in the safe use in hedgetrimmers (1 day)
This one day course covers operational techniques, safe use, routine maintenance including sharpening, and long and short handle machines. Suitable for commercial and domestic use.
Participants will not be allowed to start the course without steel toe capped boots or shoes and work clothes which provide full cover for arms and legs.
Total Cost £350 (course fee £230, NPTC registration and assessment fee £110, equipment hire fee £10)
To book this course contact Capel Manor Employer Services on 08456 122 122 Ext 245
| Course Date | Venue | Assessment Date |
|---|---|---|
| 21 Sep 2011 | Enfield Centre | 28 Sep 2011 |
To book this course contact Capel Manor Employer Services on 08456 122 122 Ext 245
Certificate of competence in the safe use of mowers (2 days)
This course covers pedestrian, ride-on or tractor mounted mowers. The practical assessment of mower operation includes pre-use checks and maintenance; identification of controls and instruments and operating the machine. Assessment is conducted in the context of either a pedestrian controlled mower or tractor mounted mower or self propelled ride on type mower. Certificate is endorsed accordingly.
Total Cost £545 (course fee £425, NPTC registration and assessment fee £110, equipment hire fee £10)
To book this course contact Capel Manor Employer Services on 08456 122 122 Ext 245
| Course Date | Venue | Assessment Date |
|---|---|---|
| 13 Oct 2011 - 14 Oct 2011 | Enfield Centre | 18 Oct 2011 |
Tractor Driving Experienced
It is for the experienced tractor driver who requires an update in the safe use of tractors and implements and to obtain an integrated training and assessment certificate in tractor driving. Entry requirement: Full UK driving licence.
Total Cost £545 (course fee £425, NPTC registration and assessment fee £110, equipment hire fee £10)
To book this course contact Capel Manor Employer Services on 08456 122 122 Ext 245
| Course Date | Venue | Assessment Date |
|---|---|---|
| 20 Oct 2011 - 21 Oct 2011 | Enfield Centre | 1 Nov 2011 |
| 15 Dec 2011 - 16 Dec 2011 | Enfield Centre | 20 Dec 2011 |
Health and Safety
The Health & Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981 require you to provide adequate and appropriate first aid equipment, facilities and people so your staff can be given immediate assistance if they are injured or taken ill at work.
LANTRA Emergency first aid at work -with ID cards 1 day course
LANTRA Emergency first aid at work -with ID cards 1 day course
· Understand the role of the first aider
· Assess the situation in order to act safely, promptly and effectively in an emergency.
· Administer cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
· Administer first aid to a casualty who is choking, suffering from shock or is wounded or bleeding.
· Provide treatment for minor injuries
Total Cost £70
To book this course contact Capel Manor Employer Services on 08456 122 122 Ext 245
| Course Date | Venue | Assessment Date |
|---|---|---|
| 13 Jun 2012 | Enfield Centre |
LANTRA First aid 3 day course
Assess situations and carry out appropriate action including informing emergency services Carry out cardio pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) Place a casualty in the recovery position and know when to use this position Know when and how to use the spinal injury recovery position Clear obstructed airways Control severe bleeding Recognise and treat shock, head injuries, major illness, sprains, dislocations and fractures and other miscellaneous conditions Deal with burns and scalds, chemical contamination, poisons
| COURSE | DATES | COURSE FEE | NPTC REGISTRATION/ ASSESSMENT FEE | LOAN FEE | OVERALL COST |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LANTRA 1st Aid at Work | On demand | £200 | None | None | £200 |
Animal Care short courses
NPTC / City & Guilds – 0141-01 Award in the Safe Use of Veterinary Medicines (2 days)
NPTC / City & Guilds – 0141-01 Award in the Safe Use of Veterinary Medicines
The aim of this short 2-day course is to prepare students for practical skill and vital underpinning knowledge assessment in the safe administration and management of medicines for animals.
This is a part-time course leading to practical assessment of the skills needed to administer different types of veterinary medicine to animals by three routes – oral, topical and by injection – and the underpinning legislative and H&S knowledge required to demonstrate good practice.
Ideally candidates should have prior experience of working with a range of animals within a particular group – e.g. companion animals, horses, farm livestock etc.
Venue: Enfield (Forty Hall Farm)
No events



