The job requirements are detailed below. Where applicable the skills, qualifications and memberships required for this job have also been included.
Based: Doncaster – North Bridge Depot
Salary: £8.00 per hour/ £15,434.27 per annum from 1st April 2026, for all ages in their first year of the apprenticeship. The National Minimum Wage as appropriate to age is then paid for the remainder of the apprenticeship contract following completion of the first year. For more information on the rates of pay click on the following link: https://www.gov.uk/national-minimum-wage-rates
Contract Type: To commence end of August/start of September, temporary fixed term for 24 months
Hours: Full time, 37 hours per week
Closing date: 2nd August 2026
The City of Doncaster Council is a confident, ambitious organisation which puts improving the life of its residents at the centre of everything we do. You have an opportunity to be part of this in the role of Apprentice Arborist.
About the role
If you are looking for an apprenticeship where you can make a difference to a vibrant city in Yorkshire, City of Doncaster Council have the perfect apprenticeship for you.
We are looking for two enthusiastic people to join our arboricultural team to help ensure that Doncaster is a clean, green and safe place for everyone – from our residents to visitors. If you have a passion for the environment and enjoy working outdoors as an active member of a team, we want to hear from you.
This apprenticeship aims to provide a basic understanding of the practical and theoretical elements of arboriculture, the care and management of trees, forestry, and the care and management of woodlands. It is a 24-month program where you earn an hourly wage working for City of Doncaster Council, with college attendance in block release - one week every eight weeks - at Askham Bryan College’s York campus.
As an Apprentice Arborist you will gain certification in emergency first aid at work, the use and maintenance of chainsaws and woodchippers, the felling and processing of trees up to 380mm diameter, accessing a tree using a rope and harness and performing aerial rescues.
You will also study the principles of the establishment, growth and care of trees, the principles of identifying trees including their scientific names, the principles and importance of identifying and managing pests, diseases and disorders of trees and legislation relating to trees.
On successful completion of the training period, you will move through End Point Assessment Gateway and be in a position to undertake the assessments required in order to achieve an industry recognised qualification – Level 2 Arborist Apprenticeship.
Whilst at work, you will learn from experienced staff in the workplace and participate in a wide range of tree work operations.
The work is physically demanding and takes place outdoors in all weather.
About You
You must be 16 or older and have left school at the start of the course. No experience is required, just a desire to succeed. You will need to take pride in your work and be a real team player. You will need to enjoy working outdoors in all weathers and be comfortable with heights. Candidates should be aware that this is a very physically demanding role.
You will be expected to attend college at Askham Bryan College, York for block release tuition. We will pay for accommodation at college as required but a daily bus also runs from Doncaster bus station to the college.
Further details of the course and entry requirements can be found on the college website at https://www.askham-bryan.ac.uk/courses/tree-surgeon-arborist-apprenticeship/
About Us
Here at Doncaster, we know that for you to make a difference to our residents, you need to be part of a positive culture where you are given every chance to succeed.
We believe that having a good work/life balance is crucial, so we offer all of our employees 29 days holiday, a local government pension scheme, and many other discounts and benefits.
As well as ensuring you have what you need to perform your role, we’ll provide full uniform and personal protective equipment (PPE). We will provide you with a thorough training programme so that you are comfortable in your role and can perform to the best of your abilities and will support you through the relevant qualification – Level 2 Arborist Apprenticeship.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
YOU MUST contact Askham Bryan College before finalising your application for an Apprentice Arborist position. We cannot employ you if you do not have an offer of a place by the college.
Places for the September intake are very limited, and you are advised to contact the college immediately. Please inform the college that you are applying for a position with City of Doncaster Council.
Course enquiries and applications can be made via the college website at https://www.askham-bryan.ac.uk/courses/tree-surgeon-arborist-apprenticeship/
We value a range of experiences and skills. If you have transferable skills from other roles or voluntary work, we encourage you to apply.
In return for your contribution, we offer:
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Competitive leave entitlement
- Generous local government pension scheme
- Wellbeing support and staff networks
- Development and training opportunities
- Staff discounts and benefits schemes
- More information on benefits can be found in the attached benefits booklet.
Please review the job summary and profile and demonstrate in your application how you meet the required criteria.
Shortlisting: week commencing 3rd August 2026.
Interviews: week commencing 10th August 2026.
For further information, please contact Dave Hooley on 07580 770230 or Ryan Cater on 07974123303.
We encourage applicants to use their own words to reflect their experience and skills and over-reliance on AI is discouraged.
The Advance Employment Team offers personalised support to help you take your next step into work. From building your CV and getting the right interview skills to accessing a wide range of free courses, the team will help you grow your skills and confidence and find a job you’ll enjoy. Get in touch by email (
[email protected]) or visit the Advance website (www.advancedoncaster.co.uk) to discover the support available.
City of Doncaster Council is committed to meeting the needs of our diverse community and improving quality of life for all. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences and are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and adults.
We are a Disability Confident employer and committed to a fully inclusive and accessible recruitment process. We offer interviews to disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria and make reasonable adjustments as required.
Confirmation of appointment will be subject to a medical assessment.
