Spotlight on apprenticeships!

By Emma Peterson. 

Apprenticeships not only build individual careers, but they strengthen the entire roofing industry.  

Every year, National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) supports the celebration of apprenticeships – in the form of both National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) and Scottish Apprenticeship Week. This week highlights the “positive impact that apprenticeships make to individuals, businesses and the wider economy.” 

Apprenticeships offer a way for individuals to earn a living while building a career and future for themselves. Because apprenticeships are a combination of hands-on work on site and formal assessment, apprentices are well equipped to move into their trade as skilled professionals. Further, getting that time on the job gives apprentices the opportunity to develop relationships and connections within the industry, that helps lead them to long-term employment and success. 

To celebrate NAW 2026 (which ran 9–15 February 2026), NFRC worked with their members to put the spotlight on apprentices in the roofing trade. When asked about the importance of an apprenticeship in their lives, here’s what some of them had to say:  

• George, an apprentice at Juniper Training, started his apprenticeship when he was 26. When asked about it, he told NFRC that “financial and job security [were things] that have worried me before, however now approaching 30 years old I am much more confident in my future with the path I have taken.” 
• Aldridge and Sons connected two of their apprentices with NFRC, Louie and Harry. Both spoke about the immense support they feel in their program, with Harry saying, “I am supported on site by experienced tradesmen who are willing to share their knowledge and help me build confidence day by day.”  
• Likewise, Dalton Roofing’s apprentices, Niall and Luke shared some thoughts with NFRC. Niall, who started his apprenticeship at 17, shared about how his role has empowered him, saying, “The one-to-one help that we receive on the rigs at the yard and on-site experience really helps and works well alongside my college learning, every day I feel more and more confident.” 

And apprenticeships aren’t just about the individual – they are a valuable way for companies to recruit and develop talent tailored to the unique needs of their organisation. Apprentices also help move the industry forward by bringing fresh ideas and enthusiasm with them. Ruth Scarrott, NFRC’s Head of Careers put it best, “[Apprenticeships] are [a] meaningful [way to] address the skills shortage [while] also give young people a fantastic career opportunity.” 

Interested in finding an apprenticeship? Explore NFRC’s directory of Training Providers and colleges!