The Institute of Chartered Foresters’ new mentoring programme brings early-career foresters and arboriculturists together with experienced chartered members, creating space for learning, confidence-building and shared professional growth.
Mentoring is one of the most powerful ways to support professional development. By connecting emerging professionals with experienced Chartered Foresters and Chartered Arboriculturists, this programme enables meaningful knowledge exchange that strengthens individuals, organisations and the sector as a whole.
Interested in becoming a mentor with the ICF’s Mentoring Programme? Apply by Friday 20 February.
Why mentoring matters
Through open conversation, shared experience and trusted guidance, mentees gain insight that can accelerate learning, build confidence and support informed career decisions, while mentors play a vital role in shaping the future of the profession.
The ICF is now inviting applications from prospective mentors and mentees.
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.
Funding from the Welsh Government will support places for eight 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 Scheme, 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, their Director of Policy and Practice, 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.”
What you’ll gain as a mentee
As a mentee, you will:
Learn directly from experienced chartered professionals
Gain practical insight into real-world challenges
Build confidence in your professional judgement
Explore career pathways and development options
Expand your professional network
What you’ll gain as a mentor
As a mentor, you will:
Share your experience and expertise to support emerging professionals
Play an active role in strengthening the future of the sector
Develop your own leadership, coaching and communication skills
Gain fresh perspectives from early-career professionals
Contribute to a strong, connected professional community
Who the programme is for
The ICF mentoring programme is open to:
Mentees
Early-career foresters and arboriculturists
Career changers entering the sector
Mentors
- Experienced Chartered Foresters and Chartered Arboriculturists who are keen to share their expertise and support others in their professional journey.
Get involved
Ready to grow your career – or help shape the next generation?