During the last few years we have worked in partnership with the KWES - the Kent Woodland Employment Scheme.
KWES has achieved some impressive progress over the last 18 months and now employs 16 people who are undertaking a three-year woodland management apprenticeship.
KWES has kindly provided an introduction to their project which we have published verbatim below.
If you have any questions please contact Susannah Ferguson at KWES directly (contact details below).
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KWES Kent Woodland Employment Scheme is able to assist owners of ancient woodlands, particularly those which are not currently managed, by bringing them back into sustainable production, and profitability.
Increases in demand for, and prices of, timber and woodfuel (logwood, chips and pellets) have made profits possible – but the pinch-point is the shortage of skilled workers able to restore the woodlands, and cut and extract the timber.
KWES Kent Woodland Employment Scheme is a charity (and training company) set up to provide training and employment for ex-Service personnel, young people and ex-offenders in Kent’s ancient woodlands.
KWES now has 16 trainees whose apprenticeships last for three years, during which they are given theoretical training and practical experience in all aspects of woodland operations and management.
These qualifications will ensure they are able to get worthwhile employment in woodland and forestry industries throughout the UK. Particularly so as all our practical training will be carried out in ancient woodlands which need highly skilled operators.
KWES mainly works with woodland owners who recognise that the increasing demand for timber and wood for fuel provides an opportunity to restore their unmanaged woods back to economic sustainability. KWES agrees to bring their woods back into production over a period of time using a rotational coppicing system in accordance with a Forestry Commission management plan.
In return KWES can either be allowed to extract and sell the wood its apprentices cut or alternatively we can work on a contract basis for woodland owners whose woods are in need of restoration.
All our apprentices work to the highest possible standards and are supervised and work with our fully qualified team leaders. Our workforce come equipped with their personal protective equipment, chain saws and other equipment as well as insurance. When necessary we even provide specialised equipment for use in ancient woodlands such as a low impact forwarding trailer.
Do you own a woodland in need of restoration and if so would you like to make contact with KWES to see if we can help?
Please contact KWES’s administrator for more information:
Susannah Ferguson
Susannah@kwes.org.uk
07860 942900
The Kent Woodland Employment Scheme (KWES) is looking for an experienced project leader to manage the day-to-day activities of the charity.
KWES is a new charity set up to provide training and employment for ex-Service personnel, young people and ex-offenders in Kent’s ancient woodlands.
KWES will work closely with landowners and environmental organisations like the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Kent Wildlife Trust and the Kent Agricultural Society to regenerate under-managed woodlands with the help of people trained by KWES. At the end of their three year training period our trainees will have obtained the qualifications needed to work in woodland management in Kent or elsewhere in the UK.
Details on the position are below - please send all enquiries to KWES and not this blog.
The South Downs National Park Authority is recruiting a Forestry and Woodland Officer:
- Main aim will be to bring more woodlands into active management to improve their biodiversity and secure their future within the National Park landscape.
- Particular emphasis will be placed on the sustainable management of native and ancient woodland and restoring the ecological value of PAWS in the South Downs.
- The project will bring together landowners, land managers and contractors to develop and respond to the evolving markets and business opportunities including wood fuel and sustainable construction.
- The successful candidate must have knowledge and experience of the forestry and woodland management sector, together with knowledge of woodland ecology, recreational and resource management and cultural heritage.
- They will be highly organised and be able to produce site management plans.
- Using their knowledge of contracts and contract management, facilitate implementation of projects through contractors. Knowledge of health and safety legislation as it relates to the post is essential.
LC Energy is a leading UK renewable energy company based in the South East of England.
The company provides premium grade biomass solutions to commercial and public sector organisations including Heathrow and Stansted Airports, Hilton Hotel Group, Universities, hospitals, schools, care homes and private client estates.
LC Energy is looking for an experienced and self-motivated site supervisor with an HGV Class 1 driving licence for a full time position with the company.
Based around the Heathrow Airport area, the role requires site management skills, and the confidence and professionalism to communicate with the company’s clients and sub-contractors.
Experience of operating and maintaining a range of vehicles including tractor & trailers, articulated bulkers, hook lift systems, skip vehicles and telehandlers is an advantage for this role.
In return, we offer a competitive package with benefits and excellent career development potential in a fast growing business.
To be considered for the position, please send your CV together with an introductory letter to Nicola Hopkins on info@LCEnergy.co.uk.
Closing date for applications is 31st July 2012.
Increases in demand for, and prices of, timber and woodfuel (logwood, chips and pellets) have made profits possible – but the pinch-point is the shortage of skilled workers able to restore the woodlands, and cut and extract the timber. 
