Events

This two-day course, developed as part of the VETcert project, is aimed at professionals wanting to continue their learning to improve their knowledge of managing veteran trees.

Course dates

7th & 8th October 2026

Approximate timings

9.00am – 5.30pm (day 1)

9.00am – 4.30pm (day 2).

Lunch will be provided on both days.

Location

Mote Park – Parkland / Woodland Garden in Maidstone, Maidstone – Visit Maidstone

Learning outcomes

This two-day course will focus on providing participants with sufficient information and experience to:

1. Understand the principles affecting veteran trees that influence their management:
   • Ageing and natural processes
   • Rooting environment
   • Hollowing and fungi
   • Location and situation (e.g. historic environment, nature reserve, urban)
2. Undertake a survey and take into consideration all relevant factors to produce a management plan for a veteran tree.
3. Understand what affects the sustainability of a population of veteran trees and how you can influence it?

Who should attend?

Professionals responsible for managing veteran trees, including arboriculturists, foresters, ecologists, land managers and countryside officers.

Prerequisites

This is an advanced course; it is therefore recommended that delegates have an understanding of basic tree biology and / or ecology prior to attending the course. Whilst this course can be taken as standalone training, it has been developed primarily with a view to supporting professionals working towards VETcert certification.

Cost

The cost of the training is £475.00. Form more information about our training costs click here.

Related resources

The ATF recently launched a series of videos delivered by Vikki Bengtsson, Chair of Ancient Tree Forum, providing a comprehensive overview of the VETcert standards. The videos give viewers a clear understanding of what is expected of a qualified VETcert specialist across all units, at both Practicing and Consulting level. These pre-recorded sessions, for which there is a small charge, allow individuals to self-assess their own knowledge and skills against the VETcert standards. The online workshop and the video series have been designed as a complimentary resource, but either can be accessed in isolation if you prefer.

For information on the VETcert walkthrough video series click here