21 apprentices have graduated from the UK’s first degree-level forestry apprenticeship at the University of Cumbria, marking a significant milestone in efforts to grow the next generation of professional foresters.

The graduation on Wednesday 26 November coincided with National Tree Week (22 – 30 November), the UK’s largest annual tree celebration, and its 2025 theme of ‘A Future Filled with Trees’.

Launched in 2022, the Professional Forester Degree Apprenticeship equips students with both academic expertise and hands-on forestry experience. Over three years, apprentices earn a Level 6 BSc (Hons) Professional Forester qualification whilst working in real woodland environments across England.

Developed by the Forestry Commission, the National School of Forestry at the University of Cumbr

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