If you’ve ever seen someone roped high in a tree with a chainsaw and wondered what exactly they’re doing — you’re not alone. Tree surgery is one of those jobs that most people only think about when they need it.
So, what is a tree surgeon, what do they actually do, and when should you call one? Let’s break it down.
Tree Surgeon vs. Arborist: What’s the Difference?
The terms tree surgeon and arborist are often used interchangeably, but there’s a subtle difference.
A tree surgeon focuses on the practical side of tree care — climbing, pruning, shaping, dismantling, and removing trees. It’s hands-on work that requires strength, skill, and precision.
An arborist (or arboriculturalist) takes a broader view. They focus on the science and management of trees — diagnosing disease, assessing structural safety, and planning long-term care.
At Woodfelder Tree Care, our team combines both. We’re experienced arborists and qualified tree surgeons, meaning we handle everything from pruning and removals to surveys, risk assessments, and Tree Preservation Order (TPO) applications.
What Does a Tree Surgeon Do?
There’s a common misconception that tree surgeons just “cut down trees.” The truth is, it’s a varied, skilled profession that covers a wide range of services.
Our work includes:
Crown reductions – Carefully reducing the size and spread of a tree while keeping its natural shape.
Crown thinning – Removing selected inner branches to improve airflow and light penetration.
Crown lifting – Removing lower branches to increase clearance for pedestrians, vehicles, or light.
Tree removals – Dismantling or felling trees safely, often in confined spaces.
Hedge trimming and shaping – Keeping boundaries tidy and manageable.
Stump grinding – Removing or treating stumps after a tree has been felled.
Emergency call-outs – Attending storm-damaged or fallen trees that pose a safety risk.
We also handle tree inspections, insurance-related work, and planned maintenance for schools and commercial sites across Manchester and Stockport.
Why You Might Need a Tree Surgeon
Homeowners, landlords, and businesses call us for all sorts of reasons — from safety concerns to simple aesthetics. Common examples include:
Dead or diseased branches at risk of falling.
Trees outgrowing their space or blocking light.
Roots causing damage to driveways or drains.
Trees near buildings or roads needing clearance.
Dangerous trees following high winds or storms.
Removing a tree to allow for extensions or new construction.
Before any work begins, we carry out a risk assessment and check whether permissions are needed (for example, TPOs or conservation area restrictions). If your tree is protected, we’ll handle the application and liaise with the council on your behalf.
The Skills Behind the Job
Tree surgery is a mix of physical work, technical knowledge, and safety awareness. It’s one of the most demanding outdoor professions — both mentally and physically.
A good tree surgeon will be:
✅ Qualified and trained – Usually holding City & Guilds/NPTC certifications in chainsaw use, tree climbing, and aerial rescue.
✅ Skilled at working at height – Confident, precise, and safety-conscious.
✅ Experienced with equipment – From chainsaws and rigging systems to chippers and stump grinders.
✅ Knowledgeable about tree biology – Understanding how pruning affects long-term health.
✅ Fully insured – With public and employer liability cover in case of accidents.
At Woodfelder, all our climbers and groundsmen undergo regular LOLER inspections, first aid training, and equipment checks. We’re also CHAS Advanced accredited, which means our health and safety standards meet national commercial compliance benchmarks.
Tools of the Trade
Tree surgery requires specialist kit — and knowing how to use it safely. You’ll find our vans and trucks equipped with:
Chainsaws and pruning saws (for precision cutting).
Ropes, harnesses, and rigging systems for controlled dismantling.
Wood chippers for efficient waste removal.
Stump grinders for complete root removal.
Climbing spikes, helmets, and PPE for aerial work.
It’s a lot of gear — and it’s all inspected, maintained, and used according to industry standards.
Training and Becoming a Tree Surgeon
Tree surgery isn’t a career you can fall into overnight. It takes years of training, practical experience, and a head for heights.
Most professionals start through college courses or apprenticeships in arboriculture, forestry, or countryside management. Common qualifications include:
Level 2 or 3 Certificate/Diploma in Arboriculture
NPTC / LANTRA Units:
CS30 & CS31 – Chainsaw maintenance and felling small trees
CS38 – Tree climbing and aerial rescue
CS39 – Using a chainsaw from a rope and harness
After gaining these, new tree surgeons usually begin as ground staff, learning safe work practices, rope management, and communication before progressing into climbing roles.
It’s physically demanding work that requires balance, awareness, and teamwork — but for those who love the outdoors and variety, it’s an incredibly rewarding career.
Health and Safety Comes First
Tree surgery is classed as one of the UK’s higher-risk professions. That’s why every professional team should have robust safety systems in place.
Before every job, we complete:
A site-specific risk assessment
A method statement (RAMS)
An emergency plan, including aerial rescue procedures
We also ensure all team members wear the correct PPE — helmets, visors, ear protection, chainsaw trousers, gloves, and boots.
Our clients benefit from the reassurance that every job is properly assessed, managed, and insured — whether it’s a large-scale dismantle, a single crown lift, or routine maintenance for a school.
It’s Not Just Chainsaws: The Bigger Picture
A big part of our work is helping trees thrive, not just removing them. Responsible tree surgery means knowing when to prune, when to protect, and when removal is truly the last resort.
We also provide:
Tree planting advice – Choosing the right species for your space and soil.
Tree health assessments – Spotting early signs of disease or decay.
Ongoing maintenance plans – Ideal for schools, estates, and property managers.
At the end of every job, we recycle 100% of our green waste — woodchip goes to local allotments, schools, and parks, and larger timber is repurposed or sent for biomass energy.
Need a Tree Surgeon in Manchester or Stockport?
Whether it’s a dangerous tree, an overgrown hedge, or a full site management plan, Woodfelder Tree Care can help.
Our friendly, qualified team provide:
Crown reductions, thinning, and lifting
Tree and stump removals
Hedge work and site clearances
Emergency call-outs after storms
Tree surveys and reports for planning or insurance
We’re proud to be one of Manchester’s most reliable tree surgeons, trusted by homeowners, schools, and commercial clients alike.
📞 Call 0161 327 3011 or visit woodfeldertreecare.co.uk to request a free, no-obligation quote today.