Taking a closer look at the pilot National 5 qualification for roof slating

By Gray Gibson, National Federation of Roofing Contractors. 

Over the last year, Scottish schools have rolled out National 5 roofing courses to great success. 

In 2025, five schools across Scotland began offering students the opportunity to enroll in a term of roofing education. In that term, students received a hands-on introduction to roofing that builds on almost a decade of construction Skills Demonstrations. This effort was spearheaded by the City of Edinburgh Council with key support from industry partners such as the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC), Education Scotland, the Scottish Qualifications Authority and Historic Environment Scotland.  

The results have already been positive! The Scottish Parliament has complemented this effort through motion (S6M-16759), which commended the “creation of new construction pathways that help young people make informed career choices.” Keep reading to hear more about the early success of this roll out.  

The details 

The courses focused on delivering real-world skills by having students use purpose-built roofing rigs to learn the core elements of roof slating, tool handling and material knowledge. Their progress was documented digitally rather than with traditional exams.  

Lewis Miller, company director at Compass Roofing Ltd, handled 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) 

And though these courses were primarily focused on slating, other disciplines are also being explored with demonstrations from Permavent and Edinburgh Leadcraft Ltd.  Looking back at the experience, Lewis shared some thoughts, “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." 

Early results 

Though the program only ran in five schools, more schools showed keen interest at the program’s success, which Scott Miller, managing director of Compass Roofing Ltd and NFRC Scotland Chair and NFRC Board member described:  

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. 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. 

Through this establishment of clear routes into the construction sector, the pilot addresses a pressing need for skilled workers while offering students genuine career opportunities.  

Original article and photo source: NFRC