Staff Profiles
Richard Arnold
Richard first became interested in Arboriculture whilst working as a conservation volunteer, coppicing sweet chestnut. In 2000, Richard enrolled at Merrist Wood College where he gained a National Certificate in Horticulture (Arboriculture) with distinction. And in 2002, successfully completed the National Diploma in Arboriculture. Richard achieved the award for Best Student during both years of study.
Whilst studying at Merrist Wood, Richard set up a small contracting business, Arragon Tree Care, with Russell Coombs. The business undertook a range of work for both domestic and commercial clients including large and technical dismantles. He has also gained experience as a sub-contract climber for a variety of other contractors, including a spell with City Care in Christchurch, New Zealand.
Richard continued to run Arragon Tree Care and steadily built the business up over several years. In June 2005, the decision was taken to merge with Tree Craft Ltd, a company which Arragon had worked closely with over the years. The merger has resulted in a company which is better placed to take on the demands of commercial contracting whilst growing as a progressive arboricultural business, specialising in environmental arboriculture. Tree Craft Ltd now takes on contracts in the south-east, including environmentally sensitive work at Kempton Racecourse.
In 2003, Richard began working as a sub-contract practical instructor at Merrist Wood College, teaching students on both full-time and intensive short-courses. He also runs numerous courses for other training companies in the south-east. In 2005, Richard successfully completed his technical skills evaluation with a view to becoming an NPTC assessor becoming approved by early 2006.
In June 2005, Richard set up Arborcraft Training Ltd with Russell Coombs. A combination of wide-ranging experience of both contracting and training, together with their passion and enthusiasm for arboriculture, will allow Arborcraft Training to provide effective and relevant training for an evolving industry.
Richard keeps his knowledge and skills up to date by attending many courses, seminars and events. He is currently working towards his RFS Professional Diploma at Merrist Wood College.
