Pole Pruner Training Courses
Our pole pruner course runs on a regular basis. Perfect course for grounds maintenance, greenkeepers, forestry, utility, conservation workers - any one in the land based sectors.
Powered Pole Pruner
Maintenance and Operation
So, the time has come for you to get your Powered Pole Pruner Maintenance and Operation qualification, you could:
- be new to the use of powered pole pruners
- have used them in the past
- have the opportunity for a new contract or tender
- need evidence of a certificate to show competence
- be an awesome volunteer who wants to help out more on your favourite site
There are many reasons why you have found your way here and we understand you may have lots of questions. Or you know exactly what you are looking for.
No matter where you are coming from the place to start with using a powered pole pruner is here.
Not only is this a great starting place for those who have not used or had the experience of using a pole pruner. As folk tend to forget that we all have to start somewhere. It is perfect for those experienced users too. As in everything, there is always the potential to learn something new if you are open to the experience.
For those who have been working within the land based sector such as a:
- conservation worker
- greenskeeper
- volunteer for a local group
- budding arborist
- forester
- farmer
- gamekeeper
- landscaper
- utility worker e.g. rail, highways
Our powered pole pruner course allows you plenty of time to learn to maintain and carry out the pruning.
The place to start. . .
If you have never used any machinery before and want to gain some confidence the powered pole pruner course is a great place to start.
When on the job you tend to get into a bit of a zone and totally focus on the job and the real satisfaction is that you can see very clearly where you have been.
The safe use of powered pole pruner course is not just about using a machine safely but making sure we protect not only you and others in the area but the environment in which you work.
Many of you are already actively using pole pruners however you may have discovered that as a professional operator you need a certificate of competence to enable you to carry on doing so.
You may have been asked by:
- your quality assurance body
- your employer
- or a new contract opportunity to demonstrate competence through certification
Are you could be new to the job or have been doing it for over 40 years and things have changed, if so and you are faced with having to gain your powered pole pruner qualification have you been:
- Struggling to find the right fit in terms of training provider?
- Confused by all the names, numbers and acronyms for the land based courses that are available to you?
- Worried you will get it wrong or waste your hard-earned money?
- Concerned that it will feel like going back to school?
- Looking to gain a qualification to continue with jobs because legislation has changed?
- Offered a new and exciting contract, but need another ticket/qualification to seal the deal?
Then we can help you!
No matter which sector you are coming from, and your level of experience. We can work with you to understand your training needs, we can tailor a programme and provide courses that will be suitable for you.
We provide award-winning training through tailored, flexible, friendly, and approachable trainers and assessors.
All courses are run in small groups to ensure you have as much time as needed to learn and experience what is required for the assessments if you chose to take them. Trainers and assessors are experienced, friendly, and approachable.
As with all Lowe Maintenance courses, you get support and advice via email or on the phone, if you need it in the future, just because you’ve completed the course doesn’t mean you can’t get in touch if you need more information or guidance.
City and Guilds accreditation
Is the certificate you will gain on successful completion of your powered pole pruner assessment.
A two-day course, with a third day for the assessment
Group sizes are no more than four candidates to one trainer, so nice small group sizes. To allow for plenty of discussion and questions.
You will have access to the Lowe Maintenance portal on booking where you will find leaflets and updates to look through before attending the practical session.
On this powered pole pruner course you will be learning about:
- pole pruner maintenance
- how to sharpen the chain and care for the cutting head
- the risks involved in using a powered pole pruner and how to stay safe
- carry out pre-use checks
- importance of biosecurity
- industry best practice
- what you need to do in an emergency
- how health and safety legislation applies to you
Bear in mind that this course is physically demanding and requires the carrying of equipment in woodland and forest environment. You will have to carry your kit and equipment.
Candidate portal
On booking your course you will be given access to the candidate portal, where you will find lots of leaflets and documentation to read through, ideally before you attend the course. This helps you with the terminology during the course and gives you a heads-up of what to expect in any discussions and practical sessions. There could even be some videos we need you to watch to help embed your learning in preparation for your assessments.
Assessment
The pole pruner training is two days, on a third day, you will be assessed by an independent City and Guilds assessor.
We may be stating the obvious and it is sad that we have to be saying this as it appears it is not common practice.
When attending a course with us, you must follow any instructions that are given when using any equipment and carrying out tasks, for the safety of all involved.
For further details please see our terms and conditions for courses.
Powered Pole Pruner Maintenance and Operation – Qualification Handbook
Powered Pole Pruner Maintenance and Operation – Assessment Pack
You will require:
- Reading glasses (if applicable)
- Gloves – leather or anti vibration
- Helmet with ear defenders and mesh visor
- Safety glasses
- Coveralls
- Safety footwear
- Appropriate outdoor clothing
- Dinner and drinks
Do you need a refresher? HSE advises that you complete a refresher every 5 years, although some insurance companies state it every 3 years. We can help. Refresher courses tend to run when you enquire – so contact us! You just don’t resist the City and Guilds exam at the end of the day – unless you want to!
Equally, if you have a group of people we can put a date together just for you.
Safe Use of Powered Pole Pruner – one-day refresher £150 +VAT = £180 per person
You will receive a Lowe Maintenance Certificate of Completion, which is valid for 3 years.
Testimonials

- Register Your Interest
If you have a group of 4 needing training - Cost - £560
Training - £300 +£60 VAT
Assessment - £200 no VAT - Certification - City and Guilds
- Training
Two days - Assessment - 2 hrs approx on a separate date

Other courses of interest to you
- Chainsaw, Felling and Forestry
- Tree Climbing and Rigging
- Landbased Machinery
- Pesticides
- Livestock
- Pest Control
- Refreshers
- Online Courses
-
You have probably noticed that there are even more courses than you thought possible.
It seems like there could be one for walking over lumpy ground soon!
With this in mind please feel free to give us a shout and ask for help in figuring out which ones will be right for you.
As a result you may discover you do not need to do as many courses as you first thought!
FAQ
Why do I need a pole pruner qualification?
Under PUWER regulations anyone using machinery within their work must have received adequate training whether it be formal or informal and must meet the requirements of their insurance company.
Also due to the chainsaw head being so far from you it’s not always possible to control it easily.
How accurately do I have to be with a pole pruner?
You should be able to prune properly and not tear cuts. You should not over cut and therefore damage the branch collar bark, equally you should not leave stubs. In preparation we recommend you look at target pruning methods.
I’ve already got my chainsaw ticket; do I have to do pole pruner too?
Yes, but because you have your chainsaw ticket you can bypass some of the maintenance. However, you will still have to work on the power unit. Demonstrate safe use of the pole pruner and pay close attention to detail on the pruning cuts.
Can I use a pole pruner from a MEWP?
No, it’s not recommended to use a pole pruner from a MEWP (mobile elevated work platform) because it can throw out the balance of the basket. Also, if you lose control of the pole saw it will fall from height potentially injuring someone but also damaging the machine.
Is it easy to use a pole pruner?
It can be a bit awkward getting used to doing a pruning cut from so far away but with practice, you can do it. You just need to take your time and get as much practice as possible. It is not just about chopping it off, you need to take care and focus on caring for the tree long term.
Should I be wearing PPE?
When using a pole pruner:
- helmet with metal mesh visor
- safety glasses
- ear defenders
- non-snag clothing, ideally coveralls
- gloves
- safety footwear
- personal first aid kit