Wren’s Path into Arboriculture

At Brindle & Green, we’re always inspired by the diverse journeys that bring people into the environmental sector.

Wren’s path from ecology to arboriculture is a great example of how passion, curiosity, and a drive to make a difference can shape a career. Wren first stepped into the environmental world through volunteering with Staffordshire Wildlife Trust and Shugborough National Trust. It was here that a love for hands-on conservation and the people within the sector began to take root.

That experience led Wren to enrol on a Level 3 Arboriculture and Forestry course at South Staffordshire College. Despite starting with little knowledge of the industry, Wren quickly found her feet, gaining work experience with tree surgeons and learning from enthusiastic tutors. This combination confirmed arboriculture as the right path forward.

Alongside this, Wren also discovered a strong interest in bat ecology. By joining the Birmingham and Staffordshire bat groups and attending events such as bat box checks and hibernation surveys, Wren began to explore how bats and trees are intricately linked. This dual passion led to a college research project on tree veteranisation – creating features in trees that mimic natural decay processes to support wildlife, particularly bats.

As Wren explains:

“I noticed how many arborists are taught to remove defects in trees to reduce failure risks – but those very defects are vital for our native ecosystems.”

This perspective shaped Wren’s interest in arboricultural consultancy, and a Professional Tree Inspection course followed to deepen knowledge and prepare for the next step.

Wren’s Favourite Trees and Woodlands

Ancient woodlands and veteran trees are at the top of Wren’s list of favourites, but one species stands out in particular: The Gingko.

“They are incredibly old and resilient trees that used to be pollinated by now extinct thrips, but have since adapted to wind pollination. I think that’s amazing.”

Veteranisation, continues to spark Wren’s curiosity:

“Trees are incredible. My college project involved testing out techniques to create bat roost features by speeding up natural decay processes. It showed me how habitat loss can be mitigated and how we can actively enhance ecosystems.”

Why Trees Matter

For Wren, the fascination with arboriculture lies in the extraordinary role that trees play. As keystone species, they are not only vital to ecosystems but also provide huge benefits for people and cities – improving air quality, lowering temperatures, and reducing flood risks.

Looking Ahead

As Wren begins her new role as Graduate Arboricultural Consultant at Brindle & Green this October, the focus for the first year will be on building skills and experience in BS5837 surveys, risk management surveys, and continuing to develop through training opportunities with the Arboricultural Association and the Royal Forestry Society.

Already holding a Level 3 Arboricultural and Forestry qualification and a Professional Tree Inspection certificate, Wren now has her sights set on expanding knowledge in silviculture, subsidence, and soil science. A HND qualification is the next academic step, with the longer-term ambition of working towards chartered status and eventually gaining veteran certification.

Despite this new chapter in arboriculture, bats remain a special interest:

“I’ll still be helping out the Ecology department with bat surveys during the busy months. Bats and trees really do go hand in hand.”

Wren’s journey shows how ecology and arboriculture can work hand in hand to protect both people and wildlife. We’re excited to see the knowledge, passion, and fresh perspective she brings to the team – and we look forward to supporting her as she grows her career here at Brindle & Green.