Matt Nash
Suffolk College alumnus Matt Nash has built a varied and rewarding career in arboriculture, progressing from his Level 3 Diploma to specialist roles across forestry, rail and commercial tree work.
Matt Nash began his arboriculture journey at Suffolk College 16 years ago, enrolling on the Level 3 National Diploma in Arboriculture at the age of 18. The course gave him a strong technical grounding and the opportunity to gain all the essential industry tickets he needed to begin his career. Three days a week were spent on campus and two in work experience, much of it in forestry, a balance that helped him build confidence, skills and real‑world understanding.
After completing his studies at 20, Matt’s career took a varied and rewarding path. He first entered the industry through the specialist craft of cricket bat making before moving into self‑employment, something he had always wanted to try. The experience he gained during that period opened the door to work on the railways, adding another dimension to his arboricultural skill set. For the past three years, he has been part of Roman River Trees Ltd, where he continues to enjoy the diversity and challenge the profession offers.
Matt credits Suffolk College with preparing him for the world of work. The extensive practical training, supportive pace of learning and exposure to real industry environments gave him a well‑rounded understanding of tree work and the confidence to progress. Returning recently to support a project at the College, he was struck by how much the campus has evolved and how impressive the facilities remain.
His advice to anyone considering arboriculture, or a practical land‑based course more broadly, is simple: dive straight in. With commitment and the right support, the College will help you build the skills you need. “Give it your all, and you’ll be fine.”