Theo McNeill, Advanced Certificate in Arboriculture

Theo has always lived in the countryside so a career in a rural industry has always appealed to him:

"As I became more interested in trees and woods, I thought forestry or tree surgery would be good options The courses at SRUC seemed an ideal way to gain skills and qualifications to help me progress As I was looking to gain practical skills such as chainsaw use and tree climbing, while also learning the science and theory behind these actions, this course seemed an unparalleled option "

“I am currently doing what I hoped I would after leaving the course: working full-time doing a mixture of arboriculture and forestry.

"My favourite module is Plant Identification: it was probably one of the most academically challenging parts of the course, but also highly rewarding Identifying plants while walking around can add so much interest to seemingly mundane places The module was taught with such infectious enthusiasm as to be impossible not to enjoy "

"One of the best things from my time at Barony was the people I was there with From the tutors to my fellow students, it was such a friendly group, that was a pleasure to be a part of "

"I am currently doing what I hoped I would after leaving the course: working full-time doing a mixture of arboriculture and forestry I managed to get a job just after I finished at SRUC Barony and have been enjoying a varied mix of work, from handcutting to climbing, all across the country The skills and knowledge I gained at college are definitely helping as I enter into the industry "

"SRUC Barony is well equipped, with everything from digital mapping to forest machinery and climbing equipment It was an impressive assortment which allowed me to learn and practice so many different skills "