A root to success - forestry courses on the up at Inverness College UHI

Scotland’s booming renewables sector and an increasing concern for the environment are just two of the reasons Inverness College UHI is witnessing increasing demand for its forestry courses.

The college, which has run courses in the subject since the 1970s, has reported a rise in interest from students across the world.

This year more than 160 people from as far afield as Nepal and Cyprus - and from all corners of Britain - are being trained and educated by experienced teachers and craftsmen.

As well as a variety of short courses, full-time students can study for a range of qualifications, including the HNC Forestry which gives an understanding of how forests can be established and maintained. There are also two degree programmes on offer that delve deeper into the science and management of forestry, including a BSc Arboriculture and Urban Forestry.

Arthur Shearer, Curriculum Manager at Inverness College UHI’s Scottish School of Forestry, said: “There’s been a huge surge in interest from people of all walks of life. Our wide range of courses focus on the key issues affecting the sector, from sustainable forestry management to urban forestry and design.”

“Our certificates range from short courses to a degree programme and many students start from the beginning working their way to the top. I’m always impressed by how focussed the forestry students are. Very few who study at Inverness College UHI are joining on a speculative basis. Most know exactly what they want from the course and are determined to pursue successful careers in this growth industry.”

“We’ve also witnessed a rise in mature students from all walks of life. Some have decided to take up the course because forestry is their life-long ambition, but others come from city jobs such as banking and IT after deciding that it’s time for a complete change in their career and lifestyle.”

Sustainability and environmental impact are key themes at the college and it’s an area where the forestry team are leading by example. A wood-chip boiler using materials farmed by Inverness College UHI students provides hot water and heating for campus buildings and facilities at the Scottish School of Forestry site in Balloch.

How the world protects and sustains its natural resources is becoming increasingly crucial as the threat from climate change grows. Inverness College UHI is at the forefront of meeting those demands, training the next generation of Scotland’s environmental conservationists.