Level 2 Certificate of Competence in Climbing Trees and Aerial Rescue
Unit 203 – Tree Climbing and Aerial Rescue
This five‑day training course provides the knowledge, understanding and practical skills required to climb trees and carry out aerial rescue safely and to industry standards, in line with current legislation. The C&G NPTC practical assessment takes place on a separate day.
Topics covered include Risk assessment and emergency planning, Relevant legislation and industry best practice, Environmental considerations, Assessing tree condition and working at height, Equipment selection, inspection, and climbing systems, Safe tree‑climbing techniques, Aerial rescue using climbing methods, Developing and implementing an effective rescue plan.
To achieve this qualification candidates must successfully complete a one‑to‑one practical assessment with oral questioning, carried out by a City & Guilds NPTC approved assessor.
“It is recommended candidates hold a current Emergency First Aid at Work certificate. All tree climbing and access equipment must comply with current legislation and recognised industry good practice. When working on a remote site, a suitable means of communication (such as a mobile phone or radio) must be available, along with a vehicle capable of transporting an injured person. A site-specific risk assessment must be completed, with appropriate signage, lighting, and guarding in place where required.”




