Pioneering Nat’ 5 Roofing Courses Roll Out Across Scottish Schools to Early Success

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 this academic year are participating, offering students a term of 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.

Practical Learning, Immediate Impact
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, Company Director at Compass Roofing Ltd, handles tutoring for the courses, with four half day sessions and one full day session a week across the following schools.

Portobello High (Edinburgh)
Castlebrae High (Edinburgh)
Wester Hailles High (Edinburgh) full day
Stirling High (Stirling)
Balfron High School (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,” says Lewis Miller.

Scott Miller, Managing Director of Compass Roofing Ltd and NFRC Scotland Chair and NFRC Board member, says the practical approach of the Skills Demonstrations and National 5 Courses 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,” says Scott Miller.

Though the course is primarily focused on slating, other disciplines are also being explored with a demonstration from Permavent already, and another from Edinburgh Leadcraft Ltd planned.

Filling a Gap, Offering a Future
NFRC has been working with industry and schools to raise the profile of the many and diverse careers in construction through hands on, 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 in the industry.

“We had to scale down college materials to create a course that truly introduces roofing,” says 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,” says Scott Miller.

Expansion and Next Steps
Though currently running in five schools, demand is growing with more schools showing keen interest. By establishing clear routes into the construction sector, the pilot addresses a pressing need for skilled workers while offering students genuine career opportunities.

NFRC Scotland will be hosting another Skills Demonstration on the lawns of Scottish Parliament on the 14 and 15 of May, as well as a Parliamentary Reception celebrating the initiative titled “A Blueprint for Scotland's Emerging Construction Talent” on 3 June.

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