Primary schools, forest schools, colleges, academies and universities often contain trees within their site which need need to be managed proactively and effectively in order to negate any risk of harm to property or users of the site such as students, visitors and staff.

East Devon Tree Care are highly experienced in carrying out tree inspections for education providers. Our consultants hold enhanced DBS checks, carry identification cards and we have tailored our own safeguarding policy and letters of assurance for tree inspections within these establishments. We have undertaken annual tree inspections in the East Devon, Teignbridge, Mid Devon, South Hams and Exeter areas for state schools and care homes on behalf of Devon County Council since 2010. We have also inspected a large number of independent education establishments. 

Trees provide a wide range of ecological benefits such as those listed below. However, trees also come with certain risks, such as the potential for falling branches or entire trees, which can pose a threat to people and property. To balance the ecological benefits of trees with the risks they pose, it is important to take a comprehensive approach that considers both the benefits and risks.

Well-managed trees provide positive amenity and environmental value to your site and with proper care and management, they are a valuable asset:

• Trees help ensure a resilience to climate change.
• Tree canopies slow up rainfall and the root systems absorb moisture and so can help to reduce flash flooding.
• Trees provide a sense of well-being through softening any urban developments.
• Trees mark the changing seasons with spring flowers, summer foliage, autumn fruit and bare winter branches. 
• Trees, in all stages of life, are an essential habitat for insects, birds, mammals, fungi and other plants.
• As well as absorbing carbon dioxide and producing oxygen; trees filter, absorb and reduce pollutant gasses including ozone, sulphur dioxide, carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide.
• Trees can provide welcome shade on site during the hot summer months.
• Trees release scents and aromas which can result in positive emotional responses and add to the overall enjoyment of a site.
• Sites with good tree coverage are able to utilise the space for forest school areas.

Whilst balancing the benefits of trees, there are some safety issues to particularly be aware of such as any trees that:

• risk falling onto the road or footway including deadwood and broken branches
• obstruct road signs, site signage or street lighting
• hang low and prevent safe passage for vehicles, including high-sided vehicles
• prevent safe passage for pupils, staff, pedestrians and cyclists on footways
• have damage, ill-health or disease
• are in conflict with neighbouring buildings

Forest school areas and playgrounds in particular, can also suffer with issues such as soil compaction around trees which can affect their health and longevity.

We can provide advice on how to alleviate any issues and improve the health of trees on your site for long term retention and to help maintain the amenity and environmental value of these trees.

Each site can vary greatly in tree cover and we recommend you contact us to discuss your requirements in further detail so that we can provide a quotation for an appropriate management plan and inspection frequency.