CS31 Felling & Processing Trees up to 380 mm — Essential Chainsaw Training for Arborists in Essex
If you’re progressing in your arborist career, the CS31 Felling & Processing Trees up to 380 mm course is one of the most important chainsaw training courses you can take. This qualification forms the backbone of professional tree surgeon training, giving you the practical skills needed to fell small trees safely, handle hung-up trees, and work confidently with a chainsaw in real woodland conditions.
At Ground Up Training in Epping, Essex, we deliver high-quality, industry-recognised arborist training coursesdesigned to take you from beginner to professional. Our CS31 course is hands-on, intensive, and taught by experienced instructors who are active arborists — giving you real-world knowledge you can actually use onsite.
What Is the CS31 Felling & Processing Trees up to 380 mm Course?
The CS31 course, also known as Felling and Processing Trees up to 380 mm, is a City & Guilds NPTC qualification that teaches you how to:
Fell small trees safely
Apply correct directional felling cuts
Manage hinge wood and tree lean
Handle hung‑up trees using safe release techniques
Process timber efficiently
Work safely and legally as a professional arborist
This is a core requirement for anyone completing tree surgeon training or working toward full professional arborist status.
Course Structure — 4 Days of Professional Chainsaw Training + 1 Day Assessment
Day 1 – Legislation, Safety Theory & Introduction to Felling Cuts
Morning – Underpinning knowledge & legislation:
Chainsaw safety legislation & best practices
PPE requirements and safe working gear
Site assessment and risk control
Safety zones & felling plans
Understanding CS31 assessment paperwork and expectations
Afternoon – Intro to felling cuts:
Basic hinge wood theory
Safe tree positioning and escape planning
First controlled felling exercises
Day 2 – Full Day of Basic Felling Practice
A full practical day focused on building mastery in:
Gob cuts & back cuts
Hinge wood control
Safe retreat routes
Managing small straight stems
Consistent, accurate felling technique
Day 3 – Hung-Up Trees & Technical Felling Cuts
An advanced session focusing on real-world scenarios:
Identification of tension and compression in hung-up stems
Safe release methods for lodged or hung-up trees
Step cuts, split-level cuts, boring cuts
Safe and controlled handling of dangerous or unstable stems
Day 4 – Technical Mastery & Assessment Preparation
Review and refine all technical cuts
Practice hung‑up tree release techniques
Improve felling accuracy and timber processing
Go through mock assessment scenarios
Final review of paperwork and safety protocols
By the end of Day 4 you will be fully prepared to take your assessment with confidence.
Day 5 – NPTC City & Guilds CS31 Assessment
During the assessment you’ll be asked to:
Fell trees up to 380 mm safely and accurately
Apply correct directional felling techniques
Handle and release hung‑up trees safely
Process timber correctly
Follow all site safety protocols and legislation
Demonstrate professional chainsaw operation
With proper training and guidance, our candidates consistently perform well — preparing you to work confidently in real-world arborist environments.
Who Is the CS31 Chainsaw Training Course For?
This course is ideal for:
Aspiring arborists and tree surgeons building their foundational skills
Grounds workers or forestry staff looking to upgrade their qualifications
Professionals transitioning into arboriculture from related fields
Anyone working toward full tree surgeon status
Prerequisite: You must hold CS30 Chainsaw Maintenance & Crosscutting before enrolling in CS31.
Why Choose Ground Up Training for Professional Chainsaw & Arborist Training?
Instructors with real tree surgery and forestry experience
Hands-on training in realistic woodland environments
Friendly, supportive, and professional learning atmosphere
High pass rates and excellent student feedback
Top‑rated arborist training centre in Essex and beyond
We don’t just teach theory — we prepare you for real jobs, real trees, and real industry standards.
What You’ll Be Qualified to Do After Completing CS31
Upon successful completion, you’ll be fully capable of:
Safely felling small trees up to 380 mm diameter
Performing accurate, controlled directional felling cuts
Processing timber efficiently and safely
Handling hung-up trees and complex felling scenarios
Working confidently as a competent chainsaw operator in professional arborist teams
What Our Learners Say — Real Feedback from Graduates
“Brilliant instructors, super knowledgeable and made the whole course enjoyable.” – Google Review
“I went in nervous but came out confident. Highly recommend Ground Up Training.” – Google Review
“The best training experience I’ve ever had.” – Google Review
These testimonials reflect the quality of our training, the professionalism of our team, and the value students get from completing their CS31 qualification with Ground Up Training.
Future Courses & Career Progression — Your Arborist Training Pathway
Once you complete CS31, you’re well placed to expand your skill set and climb the ladder in arboriculture. Next steps typically include:
CS38 Tree Climbing & Aerial Rescue — essential for anyone who wants to move into aerial work, canopy access, and climber rescue.
CS39 Chainsaw from Rope & Harness — combines chainsaw work with climbing skills for full tree surgeon readiness.
Aerial Tree Rigging Course — advanced training in rigging, dismantling, and safe sectional felling techniques.
Machinery Training Courses — essential training in site machinery, wood chippers, stump grinders, and safe machinery operation for professional arborist work.
Full Arborist Training Packages — structured multi-course pathways to fast‑track your career growth and become a fully qualified tree surgeon.
With this training pathway, you can build a complete career — from basic chainsaw competence to full aerial and ground-based tree surgery expertise.
Ready to Book Your CS31 Course?
If you’re ready to take your chainsaw skills to the next level and begin your journey toward becoming a qualified tree surgeon, contact us today.
📞 Phone: 0208 243 8658
📧 Email: info@groundup-training.com
We’ll guide you through the booking process and help you choose the right package for your goals.
Why CS31 Is a Smart Investment in Your Tree Surgeon Career
Recognised NPTC City & Guilds qualification
Professional chainsaw training under real-world conditions
Foundation for advanced arborist training and aerial courses
Boosts employability, competence, and confidence
Helps you build a career — not just get a certificate
Start your arborist journey the right way with Ground Up Training.
