Scotland's Nat 5 pupils have been applying classroom learning on two community schemes in Ayrshire following last month's launch of the Future Roofing Project.

After the official launch, students were given a special opportunity to deliver a project for a local charity in Hansel Village, chosen by His Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant of Ayrshire, who announced the initiative at Prestwick Academy.

Working alongside locals from Ayr and Prestwick, and overseen by Andy Kerr, Operations Director at KRB Group (Ayr) Ltd, the team re-roofed a wishing well that had been gifted to the village.

"It has been great to see that the students involved in the project have grown in confidence and are continuously improving their slating skill set with each lesson. Their ability to work as part of a team and individually throughout lessons has been impressive," said Andy.

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Impressed by their progress, Andy offered the group a larger challenge, which the students enthusiastically accepted.

They then began work at River Gardens, Auchencruive, rebuilding a dilapidated roof. The re-roofing took place on a building for a local Alcohol and Drug Rehabilitation facility, where residents receive support to make positive and meaningful changes in their lives.

The activity provided another valuable chance for the students to hone their skills under Andy's mentorship, while also giving residents the opportunity to learn more about the trade.

"The students have truly been a pleasure to work with, they continuously show a willingness to listen and learn, and each week you can see them growing in confidence.

"They can work on mathematical tasks to measure roofs and materials while carrying out the practical elements of slating the rigs, etc."

All participants gained first-hand experience of professional roofing, learning traditional techniques and materials and applying knowledge from their Nat 5 studies.

This work follows promising discussions between the NFRC Scotland team, DYW Ayrshire, Greenwood Academy, and Auchenharvie Academy, with the potential for the Nat 5 course to be launched on their campuses next year.

"The course has helped the students to see a more detailed pathway and future when they finish school.

"I hope they pursue a career in the roofing industry, because with the right education and direction they should have very successful careers," Andy continued.

NFRC commends the efforts of members across the region for promoting roofing careers and proudly supports initiatives that showcase the trade.