The National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) has a long history of supporting and encouraging training and, in particular, apprenticeships. It was, therefore, a great honour for the 120 year old roofing federation to be invited by Historic Scotland to become a partner, alongside ConstructionSkills, Edinburgh’s Telford College and the Stone Federation of Great Britain to take part in, and to help launch Scottish Apprenticeship Week at Edinburgh Castle.
The launch took place on the 21st May by the Cabinet Secretary for Culture and External Affairs, Fiona Hyslop MSP. She was joined by a number of local representatives including the new NFRC President, Graeme Millar, who had been handed the presidency at a major roofing industry award ceremony only a few days earlier. Graeme is the Managing Director of a long-established roofing company in Peebles, Bain & Irvine Ltd.
Scotland’s heritage is recognised, both at home and internationally, so it is vital that these and other traditional skills are supported and the next generation encouraged. As NFRC President, Graeme Millar, said, “20% of Scotland’s dwellings were built before 1919 and it is essential that these traditional skills are passed on through apprenticeships so that appropriate repairs and maintenance can be undertaken to sustain the buildings for future generations.”
He was joined at the launch event by NFRC member B & D Roofing and Building Ltd, whose own apprentices demonstrated a high level of skill during a two-day live display of Scottish roof slating practices held at Edinburgh Castle, alongside stone mason apprentices. Bob Coutts, a well respected roofing tutor at Edinburgh’s Telford College, and mentor for UK and International Roofing Competitions, was on hand to give the apprentices further support and offer explanations to visitors during the event as to what was being demonstrated.
