Learn to read the mind of your FSC auditor – or become one yourself!
Tap into our expertise on FSC certification. Conducted by some of the top expert at Preferred by Nature and approved by ASI to meet the latest requirements of FSC-STD-20-001 V4-0 and FSC-PRO-20-004 V1-2, these comprehensive training courses are designed to elevate your understanding of FSC certification, regardless of your current background. Over 250 participants from 25 countries have already benefited from this valuable training.
This training welcomes anyone passionate about FSC certification, including certified companies, public sector organisations, researchers, NGOs, consultants and aspiring FSC auditors.
Tailored learning paths
We offer two distinct courses under the FSC Expert Training to cater to your specific goals:
Forest Management (FM): This programme delves into FSC FM standards, equipping you with the skills to assess compliance and conduct FM audits, including aspects related to Controlled Wood. The course consists of an online module followed by five-day intensive classroom training.
Chain of Custody (CoC): This course focuses on FSC CoC standards, preparing participants to conduct CoC audits and ensure companies are sourcing and handling Controlled Wood according to FSC requirements. The course consists of an online module followed by three-day intensive classroom training
What you will learn
The FSC Expert Training equips you with a comprehensive understanding of FSC certification and the skills necessary to excel in this field. Whether you’re new to FSC or seeking to enhance your existing knowledge, this programme offers valuable learning outcomes across all areas of FSC certification. Here are some benefits you can gain:
Solid foundation in FSC: Gain a thorough understanding of the FSC system, its core principles, trademarks and relevant standards, including those related to Controlled Wood.
Mastery of auditing techniques: Develop expertise in conducting FSC audits according to the latest requirements and ISO 19011 principles. This includes learning how to assess compliance with FSC standards across FM and CoC practices.
Understand certification requirements: Navigate the intricacies of FSC certification requirements and understand the application process for both FM and CoC certifications.
Effective report writing: Develop strong report writing skills to clearly and concisely document your audit findings and recommendations.
Communication skills: Learn how to effectively communicate complex FSC concepts to diverse audiences, including stakeholders, clients and colleagues.
Teamwork and problem solving: Enhance your ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment and solve challenges related to FSC implementation.
Earn an FSC Auditor Training Certificate
At the end of each course, you will take an exam.
Upon successful completion of the course and passing the exam, you will receive an FSC Auditor Training Certificate for the particular FM or CoC certification scheme. Those who do not pass the exam receive a ‘Certificate of Attendance’.
Note: In addition to passing the course, you need to gain relevant experience and participate in FSC audits before you can be formally approved as an FSC auditor. Please contact your FSC-accredited Certification Body for more information. Preferred by Nature does not offer practical on-the-job training (except for our staff as part of the process of them becoming qualified auditors).
The cost varies depending on the chosen course, location and format. Please visit Events & Trainings calendar for pricing information.
You can find the registration information and online application form on the specific training page.
Depending on the format, the course fee typically covers tuition, training materials, light meals (coffee breaks and lunches), and access to the online learning modules.
Training courses are typically offered in English. However, courses in Spanish, French and Chinese may also be available. Please check our Events & Training page for specific languages offered for each training event.
No prior experience is necessary. Our training is designed to equip both beginners and experienced professionals with valuable knowledge and skills. However, if you are looking to be qualified as an auditor, certain pre-requisites are required by FSC. Please refer to FSC-STD-20-001 V4-0 EN General requirements for FSC accredited certification bodies, Annex 2.
The in-person sessions are intensive and fast-paced, designed to maximise your learning within a short timeframe. They typically involve a mix of presentations, discussions, practical exercises and group work.
In-person training courses are capped at 20 participants to ensure personalised attention. Virtual training courses are capped at 15 participants to facilitate interaction.
We currently do not offer any virtual FSC trainings. Please check our Events & Training page for more information on which virtual trainings are available.
Cancellations are free of charge up to two weeks before the course begins. After that, a cancellation fee of 25% of the standard course fee will be charged, unless otherwise stated.
Passing our ASI accredited FM or CoC auditor training is just one part of becoming a qualified FSC auditor. In addition to successfully completing the training, there are requirements for experience and education, as well as on-the-job training. FSC FM and CoC auditors in training must participate in at least 4 audits with a fully trained auditor and then be observed or witnessed to be approved as an auditor. Additionally, there are ongoing training requirements. Details of all of this can be found in Annex 2 of FSC-STD-20-001 V4-0 EN General requirements for FSC accredited certification bodies. Practical field experience can be gained through collaboration with a certification body (ASI accredited for FSC auditing). One option is to do this as part of the training process when a person is hired.
The content of ISO 19011 is already integrated into our comprehensive FSC Expert courses, encompassing both online modules and classroom sessions.
Ready for training? Access our free online modules
Our Training Hub is your free online platform to access a range of expertly designed training modules in English, Spanish and French. Learn in-demand skills and gain a competitive edge with engaging video presentations followed by quizzes to strengthen your learning.
