By Emma Peterson. 

How an apprenticeship with Aldridge and Sons helped Harry go from uncertainty to building a career. 

For many years, National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) has been a staunch supporter of National Apprenticeship Week (recognized 9-15 February 2026) as well as Scottish Apprenticeship Week (recognized 2-6 March 2026). These weeks highlight and celebrate the role apprenticeships play in not only helping mitigate the industry’s skill shortage but also point young people towards a rewarding career path.  

As part of the celebration of these weeks, NFRC reached out to their members to hear the stories of the apprentices that are a part of their team. One such story came from Aldridge and Sons, a domestic and commercial roofer based in Sunbury-on-Thames, Surrey. Apprenticeships have long been a priority for Aldridge and Sons. They explained to NFRC:   

For many young people, the transition from school into work can feel uncertain, and apprenticeships provide a structured, supportive route into a skilled trade... Our apprentices gain stability, motivation and a clear pathway to long-term employment, while we develop skilled, reliable team members who improve both our business and the industry. 

The apprentice they shared about for this year’s National Apprenticeship Week was Harry, who is completing an apprenticeship with them in roof slating and tiling. Harry was a bit hesitant to jump into an apprenticeship at first. In his own words, “The idea of formal training felt daunting at first. However, when another apprentice joined the company and shared his positive experience of the apprenticeship scheme, it gave me the confidence to take that next step.” 

Today, Harry couldn’t be more thankful that he took that step. He explained:  

Aldridge and Sons Roofing Ltd has provided strong support throughout my apprenticeship. The team takes the time to explain tasks properly, gives regular feedback and encourages me to improve rather than rush work... Further, I appreciate being able to earn a wage while training as it has allowed me to become financially independent while still developing skills and qualifications that will support my long-term career. 

Looking to the future, Harry shared that he is excited to complete his apprentice qualifications and continue to build his career, saying, “This apprenticeship has given me direction and motivation, and I am committed to building a stable and successful career in roofing.” 

Learn more about apprenticeships and National Apprenticeship Week!

By Emma Peterson. 

Luke’s story is just one example of how apprenticeships are opening doors for the next generation of skilled professionals. 

For many young people, facing the choice of what to do next after basic schooling can be overwhelming. There are seemingly endless possibilities, each leading towards a different life path. One valuable option that is too often overlooked is getting an apprenticeship.  

Apprenticeships are a unique blend of on-site work and formal assessment that prepare individuals to enter a trade as a skilled professional. National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC)'s Head of Careers, Ruth Scarrott, explained the importance of apprenticeships in an interview with ITN, “The amount of work versus the amount of people doing it for decades has caused a massive skill shortage. [By] giving real opportunity [to newcomers] through apprenticeships and roles that are meaningful, [we can] address the skill shortage [and] also give young people a fantastic career opportunity.”  

One such young person getting an incredible opportunity through an apprenticeship is Luke. Luke is completing an apprenticeship with Dalton Roofing and Leeds College of Building. In his role, he has the opportunity to build his skills alongside fully-fledged roofers. Luke shared, “My roles and responsibilities are to assist the roofer with either installing or repair roofs, to always follow H&S rules, to learn from the roofer and my mentor and to always keep jobs to a high standard.” 

Looking to the future, Luke is excited to keep learning. He told NFRC about his plans for when he completes his apprenticeship:  

My apprenticeship has given me the best start to my career, which I will always be grateful for. My skills and knowledge have developed vastly with all the training, and this helps me a great deal in my day-to-day work...My plan is to carry on building my knowledge and skills to become the best possible roofer that I can. 

And it’s not just Luke who is appreciating the apprenticeship. The team at Dalton, which includes Paul, the site manager, Philip, the owner, and Lev, Luke’s mentor, have been delighted to introduce their trade to the next generation. They shared, “As a business, we are incredibly pleased and proud of [Luke and our other] apprentices. Their enthusiasm, dedication and genuine willingness to learn stand out, and they continue to show a strong commitment to developing their skills and progressing within the roofing industry.” 

Interested in learning more about apprenticeships? NFRC has an entire directory of Training Providers to explore!

Driving global collaboration through education, events and industry engagement.

RoofersCoffeeShop® (RCS), the award-winning place where the industry meets for technology, information and everyday business, is proud to announce a new partnership with the International Federation of the Roofing Trade (IFD), bringing together two influential industry leaders committed to advancing the roofing profession through collaboration, education and innovation. 

This partnership will focus on promoting IFD’s global initiatives and events, including the Connection Forum taking place in October 2026 in Vienna, Austria and the Young Roofers WORLD Competition in October 2027 in Budapest, Hungary. Through this collaboration, RCS will help amplify awareness and engagement across North America and beyond, connecting roofing professionals to international opportunities and resources. 

As part of the partnership, RCS will be live on-site at the 2026 Connection Forum, delivering comprehensive event coverage through LIVE streaming, interviews and real-time content. In addition, RCS will present to attendees, sharing insights on industry trends, digital marketing and the growing importance of global connectivity within the roofing sector. 

IFD serves as a unifying force for the roofing industry worldwide, bringing together national associations, manufacturers and service providers to address shared challenges and advance best practices. With members that include leading organizations such as the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), Zentralverband des Deutschen Dachdeckerhandwerks (ZVDH) and the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC), IFD plays a critical role in fostering collaboration across borders. By connecting professionals globally, the organization helps elevate standards, support workforce development and drive innovation throughout the industry. 

“Partnering with RoofersCoffeeShop is an exciting step forward for IFD as we continue to expand our global reach and impact. This collaboration allows us to better share the work we are doing to unite national associations, support workforce development and elevate roofing practices worldwide,” stated Gary Howes, IFD board member. “By working together, we are creating more opportunities for contractors, manufacturers and young professionals to connect, learn from one another and strengthen the future of the roofing industry on a truly international level.” 

One of IFD’s most impactful initiatives is the Young Roofers Championship, which highlights emerging talent and promotes the importance of skilled labor in roofing. By bringing young professionals together from around the world, the competition not only celebrates craftsmanship but also builds lasting relationships that support the future of the trade. 

“We are proud to partner with IFD to share their mission and promote their events that bring the roofing industry together globally,” said Heidi J. Ellsworth, president/CEO of The Coffee Shops. “The connection to the many national associations that are part of IFD is important for the future of roofing. They are bringing professionals and young roofers together to share best practices and encourage workforce development.” 

Through this partnership, RCS and IFD are reinforcing the importance of global collaboration in an increasingly connected industry. By sharing knowledge, elevating innovation and building relationships across continents, both organizations are helping shape a stronger, more resilient future for roofing professionals everywhere. 

For more information visit the IFD directory on RoofersCoffeeShop. 

About The Coffee Shops 

The Coffee Shops is the award-winning digital home of the roofing industry, delivering online communities that connect contractors, manufacturers, distributors and industry professionals. Through platforms including RoofersCoffeeShop®, MetalCoffeeShop®, CoatingsCoffeeShop®, OutdoorCoffeeShop® and AskARoofer™, The Coffee Shops provide trusted information, education and networking opportunities. With a focus on supporting industry growth through content, technology and engagement, The Coffee Shops help roofing professionals build their businesses and stay informed in a rapidly evolving marketplace. 

About the International Federation of the Roofing Trade (IFD) 

The International Federation of the Roofing Trade (IFD) is a global organization representing national roofing associations and industry partners dedicated to advancing the roofing trade worldwide. Through international collaboration, education and events, IFD promotes best practices, supports workforce development and fosters innovation across the industry. By connecting professionals from around the world, IFD plays a vital role in strengthening the global roofing community and elevating standards for the future.

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Understand CITB funding changes and their impact on training, grants and workforce development.

The latest announcement from the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) is reshaping how training is funded across the U.K. construction industry. With changes rolling out in January 2026 and continuing through April 2026, contractors, manufacturers and industry stakeholders are now facing a new reality when it comes to workforce development and training investment.

At the heart of these changes there is a growing imbalance. Over the past several years, demand for training support has increased significantly, with CITB reporting a 36% rise in employer demand since 2021, while levy rates have remained unchanged. This growing gap between demand and available funding has led CITB to restructure its funding model to ensure long-term sustainability and more targeted use of resources. 

One of the most impactful changes is the move away from traditional short course grants. From January 2026, most short course training is no longer funded through the standard Grants Scheme and must instead be accessed through Employer Networks. These networks now provide approximately 50% match funding for training, with some health and safety courses supported at lower fixed rates. 

This shift represents a fundamental change in how contractors access funding. Rather than receiving direct reimbursement, companies must now work through regional networks, requiring more planning and coordination to secure support. 

Funding levels themselves have also been reduced. Achievement grants for qualifications have been standardised at £600, and attendance grants for long qualifications have been removed. In addition, funding for Level 7 qualifications has been discontinued, narrowing the scope of financial support available to employers. 

Another major change comes into effect in April 2026, specifically impacting larger companies. Employers with more than 250 employees will no longer have access to Employer Networks. Instead, CITB is introducing a new Large Employer Fund, offering up to £18,000 per company through an application process. This creates a separate funding pathway based on company size and further reflects a shift toward targeted funding distribution. 

Despite these changes, CITB has maintained support for apprenticeships and continues to prioritise high impact training and new entrants into the industry. The restructuring is designed to ensure that limited funding is directed toward addressing critical skills shortages while maintaining long term viability.

For the liquid applied membranes sector and the broader construction industry, the implications are clear. Companies must take a more strategic approach to training while planning ahead to maximise available funding along with budgeting for increased out of pocket costs. 

Industry associations such as the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) and the Liquid Roofing and Waterproofing Association (LRWA) are playing an important role in helping their members navigate these changes by communicating updates, providing guidance and supporting training pathways to ensure contractors remain informed and prepared in a rapidly shifting environment. 

These updates represent more than just funding adjustments. They mark a fundamental shift in how training is supported across the construction industry. Companies that adapt early, engage with Employer Networks and plan their workforce development strategically will be best positioned to build skilled teams and remain competitive in the years ahead. 

By Emma Peterson. 

From racecourse days to golf tournaments, there is no shortage of NFRC events to attend this summer.  

Throughout the year, National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC), organizes and hosts events for their members. These events are a great opportunity for roofing professionals and others in the community to come together to build relationships and take a break from day-to-day duties. Further, many of the events feature guest speakers and industry updates that keep attendees informed about what’s going on in the industry.  

This summer, NFRC members have the chance to take advantage of the nice weather with special golf tournaments and race days.  

Head to the races 

NFRC’s race days are the perfect opportunity for members to “catch up with peers, make new connections, enjoy great hospitality and an afternoon of racing.”  Specifically, there are four race days on the calendar – Hamilton Racecourse in Scotland on 27 May 2026, Royal Windsor Races in England on 1 June 2026, 4 June at Uttoxeter Racecourse, and Down Royal Racecourse in Northern Ireland on 19 June 2026.  

If you are interested in any of these events, you should reach out to get tickets today:  

• Hamilton Racecourse: Tickets are priced available for £150 + VAT pp. There are also still sponsorship opportunities for this event. For more information on either topic, all you have to do is email Ian Letham. 
• Royal Windsor Races: You can get tickets for this race day at £150+VATpp. With them you get “general admission to the track and NFRC private lounge, a three-course meal, tipster and racing programme.” Sponsorship packages (£3,000) are available. For more information or to get your tickets, email Angie McCarthy. 
• Uttoxeter Racecourse: Tickets are priced at a discounted rate of £85 + VATpp and include admission to the races plus access to the NFRC marquee close to the finish line. Gold sponsorship is priced at £2,000 + VAT and includes a table of 9 guests, Silver sponsorship is priced at £1,500 + VAT and includes a table of five. Email Paul Harper to find out more. 
• Down Royal Racecourse: Tickets are £50 + VATpp  and provide access to a premium located suite, premier enclosure badges, racecard to follow the runners and riders, tote betting services and a three-course lunch with table wine and full service. To book tickets or enquirer about sponsorship opportunities, contact Jason Munro. 

Hit the fairway  

NFRC is also hosting a variety of golf tournaments this summer! These are a “valuable opportunity to network, meet with peers from across the region and enjoy a friendly tournament at a popular course.” Dates include:  

• Tuesday, 14 April 2026 
  Hankley Common GC – 18 holes, £235 registration 
• Wednesday, 29 April 2026 
  Forest of Arden Golf & Country Club, Solihull – 18 holes shotgun, £110 registration 
• Friday, 29 May 2026 
  Tandridge GC – 36 holes shotgun, £210 registration 
• Thursday, 18 June 2026 
  New Zealand GC – 36 holes, £215 registration 
• Tuesday, 14 July 2026 
  West Hill GC – 36 holes shotgun, £215 registration 
• Wednesday, 9 September 2026 
  Bearwood Lakes GC – 18 holes shotgun, £235 registration 
• Thursday, 30 September 2026 
  Worplesdon GC – 18 holes, £215 registration 

Tickets for Forest of Arden are priced at £110 + VATpp. Registration is available to both individuals and teams by emailing Paul Harper. Please note, the other golf events (excluding Forest of Arden on Wednesday, 29 April 2026), are hosted in partnership with the South of England Roofing Contractors Golf Society. If you are interested in attending any of them, you must apply for membership.  

See the whole calendar of upcoming NFRC events!

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!

By Emma Peterson. 

Alright slaters – this week the judges are asking you to make a video showcasing your best slate skills!  

Sogginess is not only a concern when it comes to the bottom of your bakes, but also your roofs! That’s why great slate roofers use skill, precision and craftsmanship to ensure a perfect finish that creates safe, stunning and structurally-sound masterpieces well deserving of a handshake.  

Does that type of dedication sound like you and your team? National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) and SIG Roofing want to know more! Roofers from across the U.K. are invited to submit a short video that showcases their slate roofing skills. The natural slate used in the project you choose to highlight can be purchased from any supplier.  

And if your slating expertise catches the eye of one of the judges, you’ll get the chance to take part in the live Great British Slate Off final at InstallerSHOW 2026!  

The selection 

So, who will be picking the star slaters who will be competing at the show? NFRC has recruited Matt Timby and Andy Rowland for the job! Together, these two will use years of experience in the slate industry and to identify the best of the best. They will be judging on the following criteria: technical ability, craftsmanship, quality of finish and overall presentation. 

The prize  

Competing in the live final at InstallerSHOW 2026 is just the start of the prize package awaiting the three finalists! They will also enjoy “three days of specialist ornamental slating training delivered by NFRC, VIP access to InstallerSHOW 2026 and exclusive behind-the-scenes industry engagement opportunities.” 

Do you think you have what it takes to be a star slater at this year’s Great British Slate Off? Submit your video before 1 May 2026 to share your craftsmanship and get your chance to compete at InstallerSHOW 2026 (23-25 June).

Under the standard, buildings will now be judged on how they actually perform, with at least 12 months of independently verified data required. 

NFRC (National Federation of Roofing Contractors) has published a new position paper setting out what the UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard (UKNZCBS) means for roofers, specifiers and the wider supply chain. 

“The UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard represents a fundamental shift in how building performance is defined and delivered. For the roofing sector, it brings both increased responsibility and significant opportunity,” writes Gary Walpole, NFRC technical safety, health and environment officer, in the position paper. 

The UKNZCBS formally recognises what NFRC has long argued: that the roof is central to a building's environmental performance, and the industry must now adapt its practices to meet that responsibility head-on.

Rather than ticking boxes at the design stage, under the standard, buildings will now be judged on how they actually perform, with at least 12 months of independently verified data required. The voluntary standard will increasingly be required for public sector projects, and adoption across the wider market is expected to grow rapidly. 

The standard puts the roof space squarely in the spotlight. Roofing systems directly affect a building's thermal performance, airtightness, energy generation and whole-life carbon impact.  

The paper highlights several key implications for the industry and discusses them from a top-level perspective: 

• Embodied carbon: Over-specified roof build-ups carry a measurable carbon penalty. Every layer must be justified. 
• EPDs are increasing in importance: Without verified Environmental Product Declarations, carbon calculations default to conservative figures that can disadvantage projects. 
• Workmanship is now a carbon issue: Poor installation leads to early failure, which means repair, replacement and more embodied carbon. Getting it right first time is non-negotiable. 
• Roofs will do more: PV systems, heat pumps, drainage attenuation and plant are all heading roofward. Coordination from day one is critical. 

NFRC is calling on architects, designers and clients to bring roofing contractors and roof design teams into the process early, not as an afterthought.  

“Architects and clients should engage roofing contractors and suppliers early in the design process to optimise roof build-ups, reduce embodied carbon and coordinate integration with other rooftop elements like PV systems, plant and drainage strategies. This avoids late design changes that can compromise performance and buildability,” writes Gary.  

The full position paper is available for download at https://www.nfrc.co.uk/resource/uk-net-zero-carbon-need-to-know.html 

About NFRC (National Federation of Roofing Contractors)

NFRC (National Federation of Roofing Contractors) is the UK’s largest trade association for the roofing and cladding industry, with over 1,350 Members, representing the entire roofing supply chain from contractors to merchants to manufacturers. 

By Emma Peterson. 

Everything you need to know about NFRC's 2026 UK Roofing Awards. 

Every year, roofers across the UK protect people from the elements with outstanding workmanship and dedication to their trade. To recognise their efforts and celebrate the work that these incredible tradespeople do, National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) hosts an annual award ceremony – the UK Roofing Awards.  

These awards accept submissions throughout the year in 16 different categories across the roofing and cladding disciplines. Once the year is over, a selection of projects are short-listed and announced in the spring (check out the whole short-list for this year). This short list is chosen by a judging panel. They use a range of criteria, including “degree of difficulty, aesthetics, problem-solving, health and safety, workmanship and environmental qualities.”  

Make your vote 

While most of the awards are distributed by the judging panel, there is one award that you can participate in the decision-making process of! The Industry Choice Awards, sponsored by Radmat Building Products this year, ask the public to look at the short list of projects and choose their favourite!  

Voting is open until mid-April (19 April 2026 to be precise). To make your voice heard, all you have to do is log in or register with NFRC. Once you are in your account, you will be able to place a vote. Make sure you are certain on your choice was you only get one vote!  

Celebrate the winners 

And voting for the Industry Choice Awards is just the start of how you can be a part of fun that are the UK Roofing Awards! Tickets are now on sale for the 2026 awards ceremony, where the winners of each category, including the ultimate accolade of Project of the Year, will be announced.  

The ceremony will be held on Friday, 8 May 2026 at The InterContinental London — The O2. The schedule for the day includes a drinks reception and registration (12:00 p.m.), the ceremony itself which includes lunch (1:00 p.m.) and an after party (4:30 p.m.). 

Tickets are £305 + VAT each or £2,850 + VAT for a whole table (10 seats). If you are an NFRC member, make sure to enter your membership number as there are discounted tickets for members (£260 + VAT each or £2,450 + VAT for a table). If you have any problems during the booking process, please email bookings@roofingawards.co.uk. 

Get your tickets and cast your vote for the Industry Choice Awards today!  

By Jesse Sanchez. 

What roofing employers should know as new employment rules advance toward implementation across the industry in the U.K. 

National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) is preparing roofing and cladding contractors for significant employment law changes as the Labour Government’s Employment Rights Bill nears final approval. The legislation received Royal Assent and became law before Christmas 2025. While many measures will require further regulation, the bill signals a material shift for employers already facing rising costs. Adding to the strain are the expected National Insurance increases and scheduled minimum wage and apprenticeship wage hikes set to begin in April 2026. The bill applies across England, Scotland and Wales, with employment law remaining devolved in Northern Ireland. 

One of the most impactful shifts comes with the shortened unfair dismissal qualifying period, which drops from two years to just six months. For employers, that means less runway to evaluate new hires before legal exposure begins. In practical terms, probation periods, regular check-ins and clear documentation move from best practice to business necessity. For contractors relying on project-based or seasonal labour, the change reshapes how hiring risk is assessed from day one. 

Rules surrounding zero-hours arrangements are also tightening. Workers will gain the right to request guaranteed hours based on a 12-week reference period, while employers take on new responsibilities around shift notices and potential compensation when work is canceled. At the same time, flexible working becomes the default expectation from the first day of employment, putting the onus on employers to clearly justify when a request cannot reasonably be accommodated. 

Changes to Statutory Sick Pay further expand employer obligations, extending eligibility from the first day of illness and increasing cost exposure. Restrictions on fire and rehire practices narrow the options available when adjusting terms and conditions, while expanded duties around sexual harassment prevention raise the bar for accountability. In construction, where work often intersects with clients, subcontractors and the public, the risk profile is higher, making proactive training, reporting pathways and site-specific assessments more critical than ever. 

NFRC continues to track how these measures move from legislation into day-to-day enforcement, keeping members informed as guidance and timelines take shape. Contractors who engage early and plan ahead will be better positioned to navigate the changes with confidence, protect their businesses and maintain stable workforce planning as expectations evolve. 

Learn more about NFRC guidance supporting contractors through upcoming employment law changes nationwide and compliance!