How to Find Roofing Apprentices and Train the Next Generation
The UK roofing industry is facing a skills shortage. An ageing workforce, declining apprenticeship numbers, and increased demand for roofing work across the country mean that contractors who invest in training the next generation are not just doing something good for the industry — they are also building a sustainable competitive advantage. This guide explains how to find and train roofing apprentices in the UK.
The Skills Shortage in UK Roofing
Industry data consistently points to a shortage of skilled roofers across the UK. As experienced contractors retire, they are not being replaced at the same rate — creating a growing gap between demand and supply. For established contractors, this means strong demand for their services. But it also creates succession challenges and limits growth potential for businesses that rely entirely on their own labour.
Investing in apprenticeships addresses both challenges: it builds a skilled team for the future and contributes to the health of the industry you depend on.
The Roofing Apprenticeship Standard
The Level 2 Roofing Operative Apprenticeship Standard is the main apprenticeship route for new entrants to the roofing industry in England. It typically takes 2–3 years to complete and covers both theoretical knowledge and on-the-job practical training.
Training is delivered through a combination of employer-led on-site training and attendance at a roofing training provider (usually a local college or specialist training centre). The apprentice works towards an NVQ Level 2 in Roofing Occupations and is assessed through practical and knowledge assessments at the end of their programme.
Funding Apprenticeships Through the CITB
The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) provides financial support for apprenticeships in the construction sector, including roofing. Employers registered with the CITB can access:
- Apprenticeship grants — payments to employers for taking on apprentices
- Training grants — contributions towards the cost of specific training courses
- Skills and Training Fund — funding for small businesses to access training
To access CITB funding, you need to register as a CITB employer levy payer (if your payroll exceeds a certain threshold) or access the CITB's small employer training support if below this threshold.
Where to Find Apprentice Candidates
There are several channels for finding roofing apprentice candidates:
- CITB's Apprenticeship Direct — a specialist job board for construction apprenticeships
- Find an Apprenticeship (gov.uk) — the government's national apprenticeship service
- Local colleges — many colleges with construction departments can help match employers and candidates
- Word of mouth — existing employees, school careers advisers, and local community networks
Making the Most of an Apprentice
Taking on an apprentice is an investment of time as well as money. In the early months, you should expect your productivity to reduce slightly as you invest time in training and supervision. In return, you are building a skilled, loyal team member who knows your standards and your way of working from the ground up.
Many contractors find that apprentice-trained employees become their most valued and reliable workers — because they have absorbed your professional culture from the start.
Accreditation and Training Standards
Membership of the Roofing Protection Scheme demonstrates to clients and training providers alike that your business operates to a high professional standard. An apprentice working for an RPS-approved contractor is learning their trade in a professional, accountable environment — which is reflected in the quality of their training experience and their subsequent work.
Apply to join the Roofing Protection Scheme and build a professional, accredited business that attracts talented apprentices and valued clients alike.