THE City of Edinburgh Council, supported by the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) and other industry partners including Education Scotland, the Scottish Qualifications Authority, and Historic Environment Scotland, is spearheading a pilot National 5 qualification in creative industries roof slating.
Five schools across Scotland are participating, with students offered a hands-on introduction to roofing that builds on almost a decade of construction skills demonstrations.
The significance of this initiative has been acknowledged in the Scottish Parliament, where a motion (S6M-16759) commended the creation of new construction pathways that help young people make informed career choices.
The pilot focuses on delivering real-world skills. Students use purpose-built roofing rigs to learn the core elements of roof slating, tool handling, and material knowledge. They document their progress digitally rather than with traditional exams.
Lewis Miller, director at Compass Roofing Ltd, handles tutoring for the courses, with four half-day sessions and one full-day session per week across Portobello High (Edinburgh), Castlebrae High (Edinburgh), Wester Hailles High (Edinburgh, full-day), Stirling High (Stirling), and Balfron High (Glasgow).
“I hope the course will open a door to students who wish to pursue a career in roofing, or in any trade that will help close the skills gap in the industry,” Lewis Miller said.
Scott Miller, MD of Compass Roofing and NFRC Scotland chair and NFRC board member, said the practical approach are already yielding results. “We’ve seen students go from trying out a demonstration to joining local firms full-time. That direct transition into apprenticeships shows the real power of hands-on learning.”
Though the course is primarily focused on slating, other disciplines are being explored with a demonstration from Permavent already, and another from Edinburgh Leadcraft Ltd planned.
NFRC has been working with industry and schools to raise the profile of careers in construction through practical skills demonstrations. Following on from this, The City of Edinburgh Council engaged with the federation to develop an education pathway for those wishing to explore possible careers.
“We had to scale down college materials to create a course that truly introduces roofing,” added Scott Miller. “It’s great for students who thrive in practical settings. It’s especially appealing to students who aren’t as engaged in traditional academic subjects. They can see a clear path to employment. It’s practical, confidence-building, and might lead straight into an apprenticeship.”
Though currently running in five schools, demand is growing with more showing keen interest. By establishing clear routes into construction, the pilot aims to address a pressing need for skilled workers while offering students genuine career opportunities.
NFRC Scotland will be hosting another skills demonstration on the lawns of the Scottish Parliament on the 14th and 15th of May, as well as a parliamentary reception celebrating the initiative titled ‘A Blueprint for Scotland’s Emerging Construction Talent’ on June 3rd.
