National Apprenticeship Week 2025
#NAW2025
The biggest event in the apprenticeship calendar, NAW is an annual celebration showcasing what apprenticeships have to offer. Whether you're an employer, an apprentice, or thinking about kickstarting your career with an apprenticeship, NAW has to offer for everybody.
Each year, NFRC is proud to support NAW by promoting roofing apprenticeships and providing resources to those interested in a career in roofing. This year, we invited NFRC Members to get involved by shining a light on their apprentices.
Case studies
NFRC collaborated with Training Providers to learn about their role, what they offer, how they support employers and apprentices and speak with current apprentices to find out how it has helped their career so far. If you would like to learn more about Training Providers, or find your nearest, please visit here.
Apprentice spotlight
We headed out on the road to join Dalton Roofing, based in Derbyshire, and Longworth Building Services, based in St Helens, to speak with their apprentices and take a look behind the scenes on-site. We also had a virtual catch-up with Progressive Systems, based in Exeter. These visits gave a valuable insight into what roofing apprenticeships are really like, and the opportunities available.
Pathways to Success
Ruth Scarrott, Head of Careers at NFRC, spoke with ITN during National Apprenticeship 2024 for "Pathways to Success". This news-style interview was created to spread the word to young people, their parents and influencers, and people of all ages looking to begin a rewarding career. The interview explored the importance of the sector, busted myths around working in roofing, and showcased the advantages of a construction apprenticeship. Watch below.
How to get an apprenticeship
If you're considering a career in roofing and would like to find an apprenticeship, you're in the right place! NFRC has a directory of Training Providers and colleges located across the UK who help deliver apprenticeships alongside employers. As an apprentice, your time will be split between working on-site and gaining experience, and completing additional training with a mentor at your college or Training Provider. Typically, you will work around 37-40 hours a week and earn an income. Once you have completed your apprenticeship, which can take up to 2-years, you can begin earning around £17,000 a year as a newly trained operative. Once you gain experience and reach senior level, or become a roofing master, this can go up to as much as £65,000*.
*Date source: GoConstruct
Requirements
To become an intermediate apprentice, you will be required to have GCSEs in maths and English from grades 9-3, or A*-D. However, if you do not achieve these grades you can still become an apprentice! You will learn numeracy and literacy functional skills with your Training Provider or college during your apprenticeship. These skills are required to ensure you can complete the job properly as you will need to measure materials and cut to size. They will also help you if you wish to progress further into a specialist role, or explore other opportunities such as owning your own roofing business.
Apprenticeships are available to anyone over the age of 16 and are a valuable opportunity to earn while you learn, gain real life experience on the tools, develop new skills and become a master of your trade, and secure a job in a multi-billion pound industry with huge demands for talented roofers. You could eventually work on historic buildings, football stadiums, music arenas, or become a self-employed business owner with a team of your own apprentices. The possibilities are endless.
Find an apprenticeship
There are numerous ways to find an apprenticeship. You could reach out to local businesses, or an employer who you would like to work for, and enquire about their apprenticeships. Alternatively, you can use any of the resources below to find the latest roofing apprenticeships.
Checklist
Starting your search can feel overwhelming, which is why we've made a simple checklist to follow and help you make sure you've got everything you need.
Step 1: Research the Industry
✅ Understand different types of roofing (e.g., flat roofing, slating & tiling, industrial roofing). View our useful guide to get started.
✅ Learn about the skills required and career progression opportunities. Read or watch our apprentice success stories.
✅ Check if roofing is the right career for you—consider physical demands, working at heights, and outdoor work.
Step 2: Search for Roofing Apprenticeship Opportunities
✅ Use apprenticeship websites (e.g., National Apprenticeship Service, CITB TalentView, Tap For Roofing).
✅ Check with local roofing companies, builders, and construction firms.
✅ Attend careers fairs, construction expos, and local college open days.
Step 3: Prepare Your Application
✅ Write a CV and cover letter—highlight practical skills, teamwork, and enthusiasm.
✅ Get references from a teacher, employer, or mentor ready.
✅ Practice interview skills—be ready to talk about your interest in construction.
Step 4 : Apply for Apprenticeships
✅ Apply online via government websites or directly to employers. Be brave and send your CV and cover letter to NFRC members local to you.
✅ Follow up with companies after applying to show enthusiasm.
✅ Consider alternative routes if needed (e.g., pre-apprenticeship courses, skills bootcamps).
Step 5: Prepare for Work & Training
✅ Think about how you will get to to work sites and college/training centre.
✅ Be ready for an on-the-job learning experience and classroom training. You've got this!
Step 6: Start Your Roofing Career!
✅ Commit to learning and developing your skills.
✅ Build a good relationship with your employer and colleagues.
✅ Consider further training and specialisations in the future (e.g., supervisor roles, self-employment).
