It is the responsibility of the school to ensure trees are managed in an appropriate manner regardless of how many trees there are on the property. A thorough tree risk assessment-based survey should be carried out at regular intervals. There is no statutory specified frequency of inspection, but case law has set a widely accepted 2-year maximum cycle. With higher risk sites and areas where people frequent on a regular basis an annual inspection will be more appropriate. Hazards can be rated, enabling you to make sound decisions to maintain a safe environment for staff, pupils, and parents. These routine inspections need to be undertaken by a competent person of trees on school grounds. This School tree safety guidance sheet contains more detail.
All schools who buy the core offer are now eligible for a tree survey from 1st April 2024. Anyone outside of the core offer (including academies) can still buy a tree survey as a traded service.
Once you have the tree survey, you will need to engage the service of a competent person to carry out the remedial work in the report. These remedial actions will be based upon an assessment of the hazards and the risks posed by the tree. Most importantly you are duty bound to act upon guidance provided and ensure all high risks are minimised through this remedial action.
If you are concerned about trees on your school site and need further advice, contact the Grounds & Landscape Operations Team email: grounds@somerset.gov.uk
Learn more:
School Tree Safety Guidance
National Tree Safety Group guidance on trees and public safety in the UK
SC Management of contractors policy
Grounds & Landscape Operations | Support Services for Education
