gardenandgreen.co.uk logo

0191 2094161

A Level Career Options

27th August 2010

This article is aimed at all those that might have missed out on a place at uni There are plenty of 'green' and outdoor careers that are practical, interesting and have good job satisfaction. Here are just a few options to think about.

Tree Surgeons
This little island is packed full of trees, and many at some point need care and maintenance, especially those in built up areas. The Arborist, or tree surgeon does the job hanging from ropes using chainsaws. Its a job for those who love physical work and being outdoors. You can do courses in a few months at a number of colleges across the country. An example is here at Otley College in Suffolk. Ten weeks and your fully qualified to work as a tree surgeon.
http://www.otleycollege.ac.uk/courses/OHOT9B01S.html

Renewable Energy Installer
There is a growing number of renewable energy companies that install renewable energy projects from solar panels on roofs, micro wind turbines, bio mass and ground source heaters and they are in need of fully qualified installers to help them complete projects for clients. There is renewable energy installer courses nationwide. PPL training offer such courses, more details here;
http://www.ppltraining.co.uk/training/renewable-energy-courses-3.htm

Hortticultural Jobs
Horticulture is the industry and science of plant cultivation. It's big business with some very interesting careers paths within it. From managing garden centres to growing for wholesale thousands of plants under glass. A good place to start is a course in Horticulture.
http://www.capel.ac.uk/horticulture/

Outdoor Pursuit Instructor
Its possible to train to become a fully qualified outdoor pursuits instructor teaching sea kayaking, abseiling, mountaineering etc. A responsible, healthy and exciting way to make a living. There a number of places around the country where you can train, google 'outdoor pursuits instructor' to find them. An example course is at the Manor Activity Centre. They have some spaces left on a 16 week course that runs from November to March with a 2 week break for Christmas.
http://www.manoractivitycentre.co.uk