The Institute of Chartered Foresters (ICF) has launched an exciting new pilot mentoring programme designed to connect early-career foresters and arboriculturists with some of the most experienced professionals in the sector.
The initiative creates space for meaningful knowledge exchange, giving emerging professionals the opportunity to learn and benefit directly from those who have honed their expertise over years of practice and application.
Prospective mentees will be carefully matched with a mentor based on their skills, specialisms, interests and career aspirations, ensuring a rewarding experience for both parties. Through shared experience, guidance and conversation, the programme aims to strengthen skills, confidence and professional capability for the ongoing benefit of the entire sector.
The ICF is now inviting applications from prospective mentors and mentees.
Developed by the ICF, the mentoring programme is open to early-career professionals, career changers and those seeking professional development. Mentees will be matched with experienced Chartered Foresters and Chartered Arboriculturists, enabling them to tap into a wealth of practical insight, technical knowledge and professional experience.
Louise Simpson, Executive Director of the Institute of Chartered Foresters, said:
“Mentoring matters because it’s how we grow together. This programme is about sharing real experiences, building confidence and helping people thrive – not just in their current roles, but throughout their careers. By connecting professionals across generations, we strengthen the future of arboriculture and forestry as a whole.”
The programme is supported by Forestry Commission funding as part of the Sector Skills Plan, recognising mentoring as a powerful tool for building capacity, resilience and excellence across the sector.
David Bole FICFor, Head of Green Economy and Skills at the Forestry Commission, commented:
“There is a wealth of experience in the sector and this programme will allow more experienced foresters to share that knowledge with early career professionals in the industry.”
Funding from the Welsh Government will support eight places for mentees based in Wales, and the ICF will make every effort to support requests from any mentees seeking a Welsh speaking mentor.
A spokesperson for the Welsh Government said:
“The Welsh Government is pleased to support the Institute of Chartered Foresters’ Mentoring Programme, which will provide a high‑quality, profession‑specific development pathway for the forestry sector in Wales.”
Funding from Scottish Forestry will support places for ten mentees based in Scotland. Samantha Malpass, Director of Policy and Practice at Scottish Forestry, commented:
“Nurturing a diverse range of talent and building foresters’ confidence is crucial to a thriving sector that’s fit for the future! Mentoring is a powerful tool for doing just that, through the sharing of experience, expertise, and ideas.”
Anyone interested in learning more about the mentoring programme, or applying to become a mentor or mentee, can find further details via the links below:
???? Visit the ICF Mentoring webpage
???? Register interest in becoming a mentor
???? Register interest in becoming a mentee
Applications from prospective mentors/mentees must be received by Friday 13 February 2026.
