Jersey Trees for Life team expands its skill set

Jersey Trees for Life has announced that two of its team recently earned qualifications in arboriculture. Experienced lead arborist Chris Querée is now a fully-fledged tree inspector while ranger Leni Savvahas earned qualified arborist status, both having successfully completing training in the UK.

Tree inspection is rooted in public safety, covering areas such as diagnostics (biological and mechanical), assessment methods and risk management. Holding this qualification means Chris can be recognised as an expert. 

Leni’s arborist course covered core topics including tree felling (up to 380mm diameter), tree climbing and aerial rescue, woodchipper operation, basic tree inspection and chainsaw cross-cutting and maintenance. 

Alex Morel, Jersey Trees for Life’s CEO, commented: “We’re so pleased, both for Chris and Leni as individuals and for the charity more widely, as having an augmented skillset in-house means we can do even more. Chris is now part of a tiny group of fully qualified local tree inspectors while for Leni it’s the next step in what promises to be a great career in environmental work.”

She went on: “We have a perfect example of how together we can encourage the next generation to enjoy a meaningful career in arboriculture through our ranger and arborist apprenticeships. And it’s complemented by our most experienced team member proving you’re never too old to learn.”

Chris agreed, saying: “I really enjoyed the course and it’s great to have the assurance of being formally qualified to independently assess tree health and provide advice”

Leni was similarly delighted, stating: “One of the things that most attracted me to Jersey Trees for Life was the offer of a career path in my specialist area, including covering the costs of the qualifications that I’ll need. I’m grateful for this opportunity, loving my work and looking forward to applying what I’ve learned.”

Chris returned to Jersey Trees for Life in November 2024 as an experienced lead arborist after a previous spell with the charity from 1996 to 2000. Leni followed in October 2025 on the back of working several environmental roles including most recently as a gardener in Cyprus and Georgia. The arborist training was funded by a combination of the Crown and a private donor.