New generation of roofers trained in Renfrewshire school

As part of its long-term commitment to upskilling the industry and training the next generation of roofing operatives, NFRC has provided the funds and other support to Johnstone High for the establishment of a course in Plain Roof Tiling.

This newfound partnership saw various member companies offering sponsorship and support to pioneer the course.

The school has 900 students from Johnstone and surrounding areas including Howwood, Kilbarchen, and Lochwinnoch.

Despite offering an extensive range of qualifications – including National Qualifications, Skills for Work, and Foundation Apprenticeships, when Construction Skills was first introduced it was limited in what it could offer.

Jaclyn Smith, Johnstone High's principal teacher of technical, said: "Although the first year was supportive of improving pupils’ knowledge of the construction industry, there were barriers to attainment in that the literacy demand involved with the units was high, while the practical engagement was quite low.

"And unfortunately, this led to many of our learners not achieving a full course award as they were not able to complete all of the units."

However, the school’s fate changed when NFRC’s national accounts manager, Steve Laurence, discovered their predicament.

Mr Laurence involved Colin McCorquodale, vice president of NFRC and a Glasgow contractor, who swiftly applied for an 'inclusion grant' from NFRC’s Charitable Trust.

Thanks to their combined efforts, the suppliers' members contributed various necessary resources to help with practical learning.

An apprentice from Archibald McCorquodale & Sons built a training rig.

Paslode Spit supplied timber, SIG Roofing provided roofing tools, and Marley Ltd donated plain tiles and timber battens.

This innovative collaboration has made a significant impact, as described by Ms Smith: "Through the introduction of Plain Roof Tiling and a Painting Techniques unit, we have seen a dramatic change in accessibility to the course.

"Learners are engaged and have seen success through the practical application of knowledge.

"As it stands, we are on track for all learners to achieve a full course award at SCQF Level 5 in Construction skills.

"Meaning they are more qualified, confident, and experienced to enter the world of work."

Students also appear to have found the new way of learning effective, with one pupil, Ewan, saying: "I find it hard to learn from just sitting and reading a book, working practically makes it easier and gives you a better grasp of what you’re meant to do.

"I enjoyed working on the rig, realised there were more aspects to construction and understood more about the steps it takes to build a house."