About the Consultancy
Highwoods Arboricultural Consultancy provides independent arboricultural advice and compliance support to schools and academy trusts across Surrey and the South East. Our work focuses on helping duty holders manage tree-related risk in a way that is reasonable, proportionate, and defensible, while also protecting the long-term health and value of their trees and green spaces.
Rather than treating tree inspections as isolated events, we work within an ongoing compliance framework that prioritises continuity, clear audit trails, and informed decision-making. This approach allows us to build a detailed understanding of each site, its use, and its specific challenges, enabling more targeted advice, fewer unnecessary works, and better long-term outcomes. Where appropriate, we also support proactive tree health management and alternative risk mitigation measures, ensuring that safety, sustainability, and educational value are balanced effectively.
About the Consultant
Highwoods Arboricultural Consultancy is led by Ralph Baggs, an arboricultural consultant specialising in tree risk management and compliance for schools and educational settings. Ralph has worked in arboriculture for over a decade, initially as a tree surgeon before moving into consultancy, and now focuses on supporting schools in managing their trees safely, proportionately, and sustainably.
Ralph holds the relevant professional arboricultural qualifications and is completing an MSc in Arboriculture and Urban Forestry. Alongside consultancy work, he is involved in teaching and assessment within arboricultural education. This background, combined with extensive experience working directly with schools, for the basis of a practical approach that prioritises clear communication, defensible decision making, and longterm stewardship of school green spaces.
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