Training and Professional Development
As our understanding of climate change continues to evolve, it is important to stay abreast of the latest research and guidance. In addition to climate change guidance in the Climate Change Hub, training courses and events organised by Forest Research, government agencies and forestry sector organisations can bring new insights into how best to prepare our forests and woodlands for the future.
On this page, you will find a variety of resources, seminar recordings and learning materials dedicated to climate change, resilience and forestry, to help you navigate decision making in a changing climate.
Centre for Forest Protection – Resilience Fundamentals e-learning
The Centre for Forest Protection (CFP) is developing continuous professional development (CPD) for those in professional and technical roles within the sector. The overall theme of the training is ‘Resilience fundamentals, tree health and non-native pests and pathogens‘, and is based on the broad values and aims of the CFP and its research interests.
The first module ‘Meet the threats’ provides an overview of the risks and challenges that non-native pests and pathogens present to trees. The second module ‘Reducing risks for resilient trees’ explores pest and disease transmission pathways, biosecurity measures, and how the risks from non-native pests and pathogens can be minimised to enhance resilience in trees. A third module, ‘The role of genetics in tree health and forest resilience’ is also in development.
Scottish Forestry – Resilience Seminars
Scottish Forestry is the government agency responsible for forestry policy, support and regulations for Scotland. It aims to provide sustainable management and expansion of forests and woodlands, recognizing the crucial role trees play in tackling climate change and supporting the economy and wellbeing of the people of Scotland.
In collaboration with the Institute of Charted Foresters (ICF), Scottish Forestry ran a series of forest resilience webinars (2024-2025) to increase awareness and discussions across the industry regarding issues in response to our changing climate. Topics included drought and wildfire resilience, understanding climate projections and tree health.
Access links to the seminar recordings here: – Scottish Forestry – Resilient forests
Forestry Commission – Lantra Vegetation Fire and Incident Management training
Lantra is a leading awarding body for land-based industries in the UK and the Republic of Ireland, and partners with industry experts to develop and deliver quality training. The Forestry Commission is a custom award centre for Lantra and provides the following training:
Vegetation Fire – Vegetation Fire Foundation, Vegetation Fire Operator, Wildfire Liaison Officer, Prescribed Fire Manager, Wildfire Management Plan
Incident Management – National, Local and Site Incident Management Team workshops as well as role-specific training for a wide range of hazard types and events including plant health, wildfires and storms/high wind damage.
Contact fc.training@forestrycommission.gov.uk for course enquiries. The Forestry Commission can also arrange private vegetation fire and incident management training tailored to your organisation’s needs.
Cumbria Woodlands – Canopy Learning
Cumbria Woodlands provides independent guidance, training, and research, bridging the gap between woodland owners, commercial forestry, environmental sectors, and government to promote sustainable woodland management.
Online training, both free and paid for, is available via their Canopy Learning platform to equip you with the knowledge needed to ask the right questions about your land and better consider how you want to manage it. Online courses and video training topics include bringing woods into management, ancient woodland restoration, woodland management planning and UK Forestry Standard support.
Alice Holt Adaptation Trail
The Alice Holt Adaptation Trail on the Surrey/Hampshire border is an eight-stop adaptation trail which highlights a range of climate change adaptation measures for a typical woodland or forest in the southeast of England, with examples of 20th century research trials. The trail aims to encourage discussion about what adaptation measures might work best at other sites. Visit in person or watch our video.
Private guided trail walks for forestry sector groups with Forest Research staff are available on request. To enquire, contact climate.change@forestresearch.gov.uk.
Professional memberships
Membership organisations in the forestry sector offer valuable resources, networking opportunities, and support for professionals looking to enhance their skills and stay up to date with the forestry sector. By joining as a professional member, you can get access to a range of resources such as events, publications and CPD activities. Some of these organisations are:
Official Forestry Newsletters & Blogs
To keep up to date with the latest research and news across UK forestry including climate change, you can sign up to the following newsletters and email alerts:
