Internal Tree Inspection Programme

Unlock your potential as an arboriculture professional with our Internal Tree Inspection Programme (ITIP).

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Introduction

The Internal Tree Inspection Programme (ITIP) is a two-day course designed to raise professional standards in the inspection of the internal condition of trees. It provides structured training for arboricultural professionals involved in commissioning, carrying out or reviewing internal tree inspections.

The course covers the specification of inspections, the role of Visual Tree Assessment (VTA), the use of sonic and electrical resistance tomography and microdrill techniques. It also introduces key failure criteria used in the assessment of hollow and decayed trees, helping participants apply inspection results within a clear, evidence-based framework for tree risk assessment and management decisions.

Overview in brief

The Internal Tree Inspection Programme (ITIP) is a two-day training course designed to raise industry standards in the inspection of the internal condition of trees. It provides structured professional training for arboricultural professionals involved in commissioning, carrying out or reviewing internal tree inspections.

Combining classroom learning with practical field exercises, the course introduces a structured approach to Visual Tree Assessment (VTA), tomography and microdrill investigation. The course aims to develop thoughtful and confident professionals who understand the inspection equipment, interpret results responsibly, make proportionate evidence-based decisions, and communicate those decisions clearly in professional arboricultural reports.


Course Objectives

• Understand the role of Visual Tree Assessment (VTA) in specifying and guiding internal tree inspections

• Learn the correct setup and operation of the PiCUS 3 Sonic Tomograph, PiCUS TreeTronic electrical resistance tomograph and the IML RESI-PD400 microdrill

• Develop the ability to interpret tomograms and drilling resistance measurement curves to understand the internal condition of trees

• Carry out structured field inspections that integrate VTA with internal measurement techniques

• Understand key principles relating to hollowness, residual wall thickness, failure criteria and their relevance to tree risk assessment and management decisions

Cost: £595 + VAT

Who should attend?

  • Arborists with a keen interest in trees

  • Arboricultural Consultants

  • Tree Surveyors

  • Tree Officers

  • Tree Owners/Managers with some arboricultural knowledge

Day 1

Day 1 covers the specification of internal tree inspections, the role of Visual Tree Assessment (VTA), and the use of sonic and electrical resistance tomography. Participants take part in field exercises, group research and practical sessions to understand how inspections are specified, how the equipment is used, and the limitations and best practice associated with internal tree inspection.

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Day 2

Day 2 introduces the IML RESI-PD400 Microdrill, focusing on drilling technique, measurement curve interpretation and the use of failure criteria. The day combines theory with practical application and concludes with a written assessment designed to evaluate candidates’ understanding of the inspection principles, equipment and interpretation methods covered across the two days.

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  • Phil is a knowledgeable and approachable arboriculturist. Despite using the PiCUS for nearly ten years, I learned techniques and features I didn’t even know existed! His clear practical teaching made a real difference to how I now use the equipment

    Matt D, TO Leicester CC

  • As a Level 4 Tree Life student, I found the course highly valuable. Practical application of theory, excellent equipment, and knowledgeable instruction boosted my confidence—especially in data interpretation, which directly supports my work as a tree officer. Highly recommended.

    - J. Tyson, L4 Student and Tree Officer

  • I recently completed the Internal Tree Inspection Program and was thoroughly impressed. Phil was knowledgeable and approachable, and the well-organized materials made the challenging course engaging. I gained a valuable new skill and highly recommend it to anyone in tree care.

     - D. Weale – Westonbirt, The National Arboretum

  • I highly recommend the ITIP course to fellow Tree Officers. It provided hands-on experience with the PiCUS and Microdrill, boosting my confidence in interpreting data—especially when assessing reports submitted for works on protected trees.

    - Justin, TO Cotswolds DC - BSc (Hons), MArborA, TechArborA

  • I recently attended the pilot Internal Tree Inspection Programme and found it highly informative. It boosted my confidence in using and interpreting internal inspection equipment, while highlighting both strengths and limitations. The supportive, hands-on learning environment made the experience especially valuable.

    Douglas Williams – Arboriculturist/Ecologist MSc, MArborA, ACIEEM, MRSB

  • Phil’s inaugural Internal Tree Inspection Program was a game-changer for our team. His knowledge, passion, and hands-on approach made the sessions both informative and engaging. We walked away with a deeper understanding of tree health and structural assessment, and the confidence to apply what we learned in the field.

     - Billy D - Westonbirt, The National Arboretum

  • Phil’s first Internal Tree Inspection Program was excellent—clear, engaging, and hands-on. He made technical topics easy to grasp, and I now feel much more confident assessing tree health.

     - Joe P - Westonbirt, The National Arboretum

  • Phil nailed the first Internal Tree Inspection Program—relaxed, practical, and packed with useful info. His passion made it engaging, and the hands-on learning with real trees made it truly effective.

    Chrissie D - Westonbirt, The National Arboretum

  • The internal tree inspection program greatly boosted my confidence in using and interpreting sonic tomography and resistance drilling. The engaging delivery kept me involved, and the course covered both equipment use and the critical nuances affecting accuracy. Highly recommended for anyone seeking reliable data.

    Mike Tucker – Director, Arb Tree Works Ltd

Register your interest today

Stay informed about the launch and secure your place on upcoming dates, or to arrange a private course for an internal team.

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