COURSE DETAILS

Training Course Type

  • On-site training and assessment
  • On-site Experience Worker Test (EWT) assessment only 

Novice Training Course Duration

1-2 days dependant on any previous experience 

Novice Candidate Numbers

4

xperience Worker Tests per day

6

Variations

  • Pedestrian operated
  • Self-propelled
  • Remote controlled tracked
  • Machine mounted

Card Options

  • 5-year NPORS traditional card & certificate

Minimum Age

16

Instructor

Tuppco instructors

FURTHER
INFORMATION

  • What Is a Stump Grinder?

    Stump grinders can be the size of a lawn mower or as large as a truck. Most accomplish their task by means of a high-speed disk with teeth that grinds the stump and roots into small chips.

    A typical stump grinder incorporates a cutter wheel with fixed carbide teeth. The cutter wheel movements are controlled by hydraulic cylinders to push the cutter head laterally through the stump and to raise and lower it.

  • What Does The Tuppco Training Course Include?
    • Have a basic understanding of the industry, the dangers of working in the industry and their responsibilities as an operator
    • Have a working knowledge of the manufacturer’s handbook for the particular machine to be used
    • Be able to locate and identify the major components of the machine and explain their functions
    • Be able to locate and identify key controls and explain their functions
    • Set up exclusion zone
    • Conduct all pre-operational checks in accordance with manufacturers and legislative requirements
    • Select suitable type of machine relative to the work being undertaken
    • Identify and maintain PPE appropriate for stump grinder use
    • Prepare the stump grinder for use
    • Conduct all necessary safety and efficiently
    • Environmental considerations
    • Storage and transport of stump grinder
    • Disposal of cut materials 
    • Carry out all end of shift and shut down procedures 
  • Venue and Equipment Requirements:
    • Suitable and safe area to operate machinery
    • A range of logs to handle
    • Vehicle or trailer to load
    • Suitable and safe area to complete paperwork
    • Suitable welfare facilities
    • Material re-handler and attachments
    • Operators’ manual 
    • Risk assessment completed
  • Theory Assessment:
    • 20 multiple choice questions
    • 5 written questions
    • 4 marks per question
    • 80% pass mark required
  • Practical Assessment criteria:
      • Pre use and operational checks
      • Demonstrate knowledge of controls including emergency stop procedure
      • Demonstrate safe and efficient use of machines
      • End of use checks 
  • Where Does Tuppco Deliver Onsite Courses?
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IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Objective Of Course

The aim of the NPORS Stump Grinder (N606) course is to ensure learners can operate stump grinders safely, confidently, and efficiently, while protecting themselves, colleagues, and the public.

Key Course Objectives:
  • Understand the legal responsibilities of stump grinder operators
  • Identify common hazards such as flying debris, machine instability, underground obstructions, and noise
  • Conduct pre-use inspections, checking guards, teeth, belts, and safety mechanisms
  • Learn correct machine setup, positioning, and stump assessment
  • Operate the stump grinder safely, including controlled cutting and depth management
  • Manage debris safely and maintain a clear working area
  • Perform safe emergency stop and shutdown procedures
  • Understand basic maintenance requirements, including cleaning and checks
  • Build confidence to carry out stump grinding tasks in varied environments

By the end of the course, learners will be fully competent in safe stump grinder operation, reducing risks and increasing productivity on site.

What Will Be Awarded

Upon successful completion of the NPORS Stump Grinder (N606) course with TUPPCO Training, learners will receive an NPORS N606 certificate, confirming competence in the safe operation, maintenance, and hazard awareness required for professional stump grinding work.

Your Award Will Include:
  • Official NPORS N606 Certificate
  • Verified ability to operate stump grinders safely and efficiently
  • Knowledge of machine components, controls, safety features, and risk management
  • Skills in positioning, grinding, debris management, and machine shutdown
  • Understanding of PPE requirements, emergency procedures, and maintenance checks
Who the Award Is For:

Ideal for arborists, forestry workers, grounds maintenance teams, landscapers, estate workers, and anyone who operates stump grinding machinery in commercial or domestic environments.

How Long The Course Can Take

The NPORS Stump Grinder (N606) course is hands-on, detailed, and safety-focused:

Course Duration Overview:
  •  1 day

  • Theory sessions covering hazards, legislation, machine setup, and safety controls

  • Practical training on grinding techniques, safe positioning, depth control, and debris handling

  • Final NPORS theory and practical assessment

Delivered by NPORS-certified TUPPCO Training instructors with professional arboriculture experience.

TUPPCO Training delivers this course UK-wide, including forestry sites, estates, construction areas, parks, and commercial grounds.

Expert Training On Your Business Site

TUPPCO Training provides on-site stump grinder training, allowing your team to learn safely using your stump grinder, your site, and your real working conditions.

Benefits of On-Site Training:
  1. Tailored to your machine type, whether pedestrian-operated or tracked
  2. Realistic training using actual stumps and terrain at your location
  3. Reduces travel time and operational downtime
  4. Helps identify site-specific hazards, such as slopes, hidden obstructions, or public access
  5. Delivered by experienced NPORS-certified TUPPCO Training instructors
Suitable On-Site Locations Include:
  • Forestry and woodland environments
  • Estates and large gardens
  • Commercial landscaping sites
  • Tree surgery and arboriculture operations
  • Construction or land-clearing projects

TUPPCO Training covers the Cotswolds, Midlands, South West, and all areas across the UK.

FAQs

All FAQs
  • Do I Receive A Certificate & Skills Card?

    Yes! Upon successful completion of your course, you’ll receive an official certificate and skills card accredited by Lantra, NPORS or Qualsafe recognising your achievement and qualification.

  • What Areas Do We Cover?
    TUPPCO Training proudly provides expert first aid and workplace training across the Cotswolds, surrounding counties, and nationwide across the UK. We bring our trainers directly to your business, school, nursery, or organisation. Local Cotswold Areas We Cover- Cheltenham, Gloucester, Cirencester, Tewkesbury, Stroud, Stow-on-the-Wold, Moreton-in-Marsh, Bourton-on-the-Water Wider Regional & UK Coverage- We also cover Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Worcestershire, and all areas across the UK, ensuring flexible, high-quality training wherever you are located. If your area isn’t listed, just get in touch—TUPPCO Training travels nationwide.
  • Where Do We Deliver Training?

    All training is delivered at your site, farm, or another suitable location. We tailor each session to your environment to ensure it’s relevant and practical. Specific arrangements can be discussed in more detail upon request.

  • Who Delivers Your Training?

    Our training is delivered by Bertie Tupper and a team of fully qualified instructors who are accredited by Lantra, NPORS or Qualsafe. Each trainer brings real industry experience and a passion for helping learners build practical skills and confidence.

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