STUDENTS from Fife College’s roof, slating and tiling first-year apprenticeship course recently received a tour of roofing renovation works at the Kirkcaldy Campus.
The development day, organised by the college’s estates team in partnership with contract partners undertaking the work, Marshall Construction and AtkinsRéalis, provided the students with an overview of pre-work requirements including contract tender, budgets, health and safety and project management.
Marshall Construction, AtkinsRéalis and the college’s health and safety team all delivered presentations before the students were given tours of the roofing works and took part in Q&A sessions. The event provided a first-hand look at how these kinds of projects are undertaken in the industry.
Mhairi Horne, from Kirkcaldy, who is an apprentice with local business, Roof and Fibre, said, “I have a keen interest in the traditional side of roofing and this project really gave us the chance to fully grasp the importance of conservation work, preserving the historical architecture while maintaining the building’s integrity.”
Leah Stewart, also from Kirkcaldy and an apprentice with Roof and Fibre, added, “Insights from Marshall Construction contractors, AtkinsRéalis, and the college transformed the visit into an enlightening exploration of heritage preservation. From small roofing repairs to intricate lead and stonework, each step reflected the dedication required within the roofing/construction industry, providing us all with valuable insights.”
Tam Cunningham, estates manager at Fife College, commented, “Our partnership with AtkinsRéalis and Marshall Construction, combined with our support to the local community, ensured the students gained a ‘live learning experience’ that I’m sure will be a great benefit to them as they embark on their own careers in the industry.”
Derek Clarke, Marshall Construction’s general building commercial director, said, “The conservation of this and the many other traditional buildings will provide a huge seam of skilled work and opportunity for tradesmen of the future and it was rewarding to see the enthusiasm shown by the apprentices for the type of work on show.”
Antonio Cabello, regional director at AtkinsRéalis, added, “It is essential for the training that they see in situ how different components and materials are put together, existing constraints on site, the health and safety aspect, but also the passion and dedication that specialist tradesmen put into every single detail, to ensure the outcome meets the client demands whilst the significance and the heritage value of the building is full respect.”
