The National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) celebrated the formal opening of the Future Roofing programme at Prestwick Academy on Friday, 27 February 2026.

The ceremony was led by Sheriff Iona Sara McDonald OBE, His Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant of Ayrshire and Arran, highlighting a significant advancement for vocational training within the Scottish school system.

The initiative expands upon a successful trial of the National 5 qualification in Creative Industries Roof Slating. Since September, the course at Prestwick Academy has been spearheaded by Andy Kerr, Operations Director at NFRC Member firm KRB Group (Ayr) Ltd. Under this programme, students engage in hands-on learning using purpose-built roofing rigs to master the fundamentals of roof slating, material knowledge, and safe tool handling.

Rather than relying solely on traditional written exams, student progress is captured through digital recordings. This method allows pupils to demonstrate their practical competencies in a real-world context, fostering both confidence and technical ability.

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Andy Kerr said: "The opening was fantastic. The programme we've been running was very well received by all the dignitaries in attendance. Over the last 3-4 months, the attitude and aptitude of the students, and the level of skills they have developed, is completely refreshing to witness and be a part of. They are a credit to work with and deserve to be recognised. This programme gives young people a genuine opportunity to experience roofing as a skilled and rewarding career. It introduces them to real tools, real materials, and real techniques in a safe learning environment. We are proud to support an essential initiative that helps develop the next generation of skilled tradespeople."

Scott Miller, Managing Director of Compass Roofing Ltd, NFRC Scotland Chair and NFRC Board member, added: "Practical education like this is essential if we are to address skills shortages and show young people the value of careers in roofing and other construction trades. This programme demonstrates what can be achieved when schools and industry work together and from all conversations between education and industry, it's imperative that we do this together."

The launch arrives just ahead of Scottish Apprenticeship Week, during which NFRC Scotland plans to host a live skills demonstration at Beath High School in Cowdenbeath. An NFRC spokesperson stated that the federation remains committed to collaborating with educational partners and employers to expand the National 5 initiative and secure the long-term skills pipeline for the construction sector.

The NFRC represents the interests of over 1,350 members across the UK, spanning the entire roofing and cladding supply chain.