The Institute of Chartered Foresters (ICF) is delighted to celebrate a significant milestone, as three apprentices from the University of Cumbria’s inaugural Professional Forester Apprenticeship, in partnership with the ICF and the Forestry Commission, have been awarded Chartered Forester status after presenting for Professional Membership Entry (PME).
Launched in 2022, this trailblazing programme is the UK’s first degree-level forestry apprenticeship. With its innovative mix of academic study, hands-on experience and sector placements, the scheme is designed to upskill, broaden and strengthen the forestry workforce. Graduates emerge not only with a Professional Forester Apprenticeship (Level 6 equivalent) and a BSc (Hons) Professional Forester qualification, but also with the opportunity to achieve Chartered Forester recognition.
Setting a new standard for future cohorts, Gareth Biggins, John Herbert and Matthew L’Estrange all successfully presented for PME after completing the three-year programme and can now use the prestigious MICFor post-nominals marking a proud moment in their professional journeys.
The achievements of these three new Chartered Foresters are a testament to the programme’s success in opening new doors for talent in the forestry sector, addressing the skills gap, supporting ambitious government targets for tree planting and woodland creation, and championing excellence across the profession.
Jo Fox-Evans, Head of Membership Engagement at the Institute, said:
“This is a landmark moment for the forestry sector. These apprentices have not only completed a rigorous academic and practical journey but have now joined the ranks of Chartered Foresters. We are proud of their achievement and of the programme’s role in shaping the next generation of forestry professionals.”
Mark Tomlinson, Senior Lecturer and Programme Lead for the Professional Forester Apprenticeship at the University of Cumbria, said:
“We are immensely proud to see the first Professional Forester Apprentices achieve Chartered Forester status. This milestone demonstrates the transformative power of degree apprenticeships in supporting career progression and meeting the UK’s growing demand for skilled forestry professionals. Working in partnership with the Forestry Commission and the Institute of Chartered Foresters, the University of Cumbria is delighted to be at the forefront of developing a highly skilled and future-focused forestry workforce.”
Gareth Biggins MICFor said:
“After 15 years in the rail industry, I joined the Forestry Commission as a Professional Forester Apprentice following the sudden loss of my brother-in-law to pancreatic cancer that reshaped my priorities. I wanted my work to reflect my values, contributing to something lasting, restorative and meaningful. Forestry represents that balance: sustainability, stewardship and wellbeing of both people and the environment.
Although I wasn’t certain I would apply for PME at the end of the apprenticeship due to the perceived additional workload, I wanted to demonstrate to fellow and future apprentices that it is attainable, and to share my experience to help others.”
John Herbert MICFor said:
“My career in the outdoor sector began at the National Trust, where I discovered a passion for woodland management and sustainable forestry. In 2023, I transitioned from my role as Senior Forester at Killerton Estate to become the Heanton Woods Forester for Clinton Devon Estates, overseeing 1,000 hectares of commercial forestry in North Devon.
Undertaking the Professional Forester Apprenticeship and achieving chartered status (MICFor) was a significant milestone, recognising my commitment and enthusiasm for the sector. As a Chartered Forester, I hope to promote the diverse and accessible range of roles that exist within the forestry sector.”
Matthew L’Estrange MICFor said:
“With a background in ecology and over 12 years at the National Trust, I’ve increasingly focused on woodland management, leading to my move to Ashridge Estate in 2019. The Professional Forester Apprenticeship offered the ideal opportunity to gain a recognised qualification while continuing to work.
The chance to apply for PME at the end of the degree really appealed to me to demonstrate an additional level of professionalism, enhance my credibility within the sector and open future career opportunities. Completing the degree-level apprenticeship and gaining Chartered Forester status has equipped me with the skills, knowledge and confidence to make a real difference in my work.”
The Institute congratulates Gareth, John and Matthew for this achievement and looks forward to welcoming many more as the programme continues.
