The RFS Professional Diploma, Dip.Arb.(RFS) is a stringent examination of an advanced standard of knowledge of arboricultural practices, principles and management. This is a one-year programme that will assist student preparation for the examination in June 2006.

Full details of the examination regulations, syllabus and suggested books for study are available on the RFS website at www.rfs.org.uk/rfsdparb.htm.

The Course
The course aims to provide candidates with the opportunity to attend on one afternoon/evening per week that will encompass the wide range of subject matter required for the examination. Sessions will include lectures, presentations, demonstrations, exercises and visits to encourage and stimulate the progress of the individual. Study material will be provided together with revision guidance for subsequent self study together with tutorial support.

Course Content
Common Subject Areas
It is impossible to completely separate the network of subjects that link all aspects of arboriculture. Although specific topics are listed in the course contents section, certain subjects are integrated throughout.

Course Content:
Section 1 Historical
Section 2 Plant Science
Section 3 Plant Environment
Section 4 Plant Health
Section 5 Tree Nursery Practice
Section 6 Planning and Planting
Section 7 Maintenance of Woody Plants
Section 8 Health and Safety
Section 9 Trees and the Law
Section 10 Tree Inspection and Surveys
Section 11 Trees and Development
Section 12 Mechanical Equipment and Hand Tools
Section 13 Woodland Management for Amenity and Conservation
Section 14 Arboreta Management
Section 15 Organisation and Management

The Course Management will be undertaken by Tree Life Arboricultural Consultancy, from whom further information can be obtained.Dave Dowson and occasional guest lecturers will deliver the teaching; together they have an unrivalled success in the achievement of candidates for this qualification.

Entry Requirements
Candidates must be over 23 years of age and have been in the industry full time for at least 3 years.

Whilst there are no obligatory qualifications required to take the Diploma, candidates are advised to hold at least one of the following:

• AA Technicians Certificate
• RFS Certificate in Arboriculture
• National Certificate in Horticulture (Arboriculture)
• BTEC National Diploma in Arboriculture

Candidates must produce written references of their experience and ability in setting up and handling arboricultural machinery for the examining body.

Also examination candidates must be full individual RFS members.

Training and Assessment Methods
Usual daytime attendance will be mainly classroom based and supplemented with visits and practical exercises, library studies, use of computer and laboratory facilities and other events intended to make each course as rewarding and focused as possible.

For examination candidates, time will be allocated for revision questions and individual tutorials.

There are two parts to the examination:

1. Written Theory Papers
2 x 3 hour written papers, normally held in June.To obtain a Pass, a 50% mark or over must be achieved. The written papers must be passed before candidates may progress to the management exercise

2. Management exercise over one day
A series of tests to assess a wide range of background knowledge, normally held in September. Candidates are assessed by practical tasks involving site appraisals, tree assessment and diagnosis, safety aspects and arboricultural management principles.

Qualification Gained
The qualification of Dip.Arb.(RFS) will be awarded to those candidates who pass both the theory and management exercises. Candidates who achieve more than 65% of the aggregate marks will be awarded the RFS Professional Diploma in Arboriculture with Distinction.

Progression
Access to a higher degree or Masters programme or progression to consultancy and senior management positions within the arboricultural industry. You may wish to become a Fellow of the Arboricultural Association or move towards chartered status.

Venue and Facilities
The course units will be run at the Capel Manor College campus in Enfield; an 18th Century manor house surrounded by 30 acres of mature gardens. The Duchess of Devonshire Pavilion, opened in 2000, houses new library and IT facilities in addition to well equipped classrooms and administration offices.

Capel Manor is conveniently situated by Junction 25 of the M25 within easy reach of London, the Home Counties, major rail links and international airports.

Fees

Study		Day	Start Date	Course Time	19+ Annual Tuition Fee	19+ Reg Fee	Length
Part-time		W	Sept	9pm-4pm	TBA	TBA	1 year

Please note that exam fees may be subject to change by the awarding bodies

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