FOLLOWING the success of in-school skills demonstrations in 2024, NFRC (National Federation of Roofing Contractors) Scotland has announced an expansion of its education programme this year.
The trade body said it has been encouraged to see so many youngsters show an interest in learning roofing skills including slate cutting, dressing, and laying slates on roofing rigs.
NFRC added that is dedicated to working across the sector to solve the skills crisis which impacts all industries, revealing that the recent introduction of a single-ply roofing activity into school demonstrations has already been well received.
With the help of NFRC members Compass Roofing Ltd, Prime Roof Solutions, Taylor Roofings, Briggs Amasco, Pinnacle Roofing Specialists, Sika, Bauder, and Kerr Roofing & Building (Ayr), the organisation has offered hands-on experiences that are designed to give students a taste of what careers in construction look like.
Scott Miller, NFRC Scotland regional chairman and MD at Compass Roofing Ltd, said, “Our efforts to promote the diverse careers in construction have continued to grow from strength to strength. We are partnering with local authorities to create a clear construction pathway for students interested in pursuing careers with great pay and opportunities.
“2025 promises to be another hugely busy year for the NFRC in Scotland with numerous high-profile events planned and we thank everyone who supports these events, especially the supplier members who sponsor the events. We have continued to strengthen our relationships with key decision-makers at the Scottish Parliament and local authorities and are excited to see a host of new programmes start to bear fruit.”
Events already organised for this year include:
- A skills demonstration at Kelso High School on 22 January.
- In February, the skills demonstration programme is expanding to South Ayrshire with the first event taking place at Prestwick Academy.
- NFRC will deliver a skills demonstration at The Scottish National Apprenticeship show at SEC Glasgow on 4 and 5 March.
- NFRC will host a skills demonstration on the lawns of Scottish Parliament on 14 and 15 May.
- A reception, titled ‘A Blueprint for Scotland’s Emerging Construction Talent’ will be held at Scottish Parliament on 3 June.
- NFRC will have a training rig set up at the Royal Highland Show in June, offering attendees the chance to dress a slate and fix it to a rig. Young people will be able to discuss roofing career opportunities while home and estate owners can receive free advice on how to repair and maintain their roofs.
