In recent months, the organisation’s work to champion roofing training and inspire the next generation has received wide recognition from parliamentarians, local authorities, and industry bodies.

At Holyrood, NFRC Scotland was commended through a Scottish Parliamentary motion for its role in the Edinburgh Traditional Building Festival. During a debate on 18 September, Gordon MacDonald MSP highlighted the importance of the National 5 qualification in roofing, while Carol Mochan MSP raised concerns about the lack of training provision in South Scotland, citing NFRC’s parliamentary reception.

The issue has also caught attention at Westminster, with Euan Stainbank MP attending the Lock 16 Stakeholder Engagement event on 19 September. Mr Stainbank tried his hand at cutting slate with Kyle Stoddart of Compass Roofing Ltd and discussed the industry’s workforce challenges with Compass Roofing managing director, Scott Miller.

Further recognition came from The City of Edinburgh Council, which highlighted NFRC’s work in its June 2025 supplier newsletter, while Foysol Choudhury MSP pressed the Scottish Government on its plans to create a sustainable rollout of National 5 Creative Industries courses in roof slating across Scotland.

NFRC Scotland and its members have also been recognised in the COSLA Excellence Awards for their contributions to the Build Your Future initiative and the development of the National 5 qualification. Regional manager John McKinney has been invited to present to the judging panel.

Looking ahead, NFRC Scotland and its members will continue to engage young people through hands-on skills demonstrations and high-profile events, including:

• 6 October – Skills demonstration at Leith Academy
• 24 October – Scottish Roofing Awards, celebrating excellence in the industry and skills development
• 27 October – Participation in Edinburgh Castle Heritage Careers Week
• 28 October – Skills demonstrations at Bo’ness Academy by Compass Roofing Ltd and at The Engine Shed, Stirling by Old Plean Roofing
• 3–4 November – Skills demonstration at St Augustine’s RC High School, Edinburgh
• 18 November – Skills demonstration at Currie High School, Edinburgh

Several MSPs are also set to visit students during these events to see first-hand the impact of roofing skills training.

A spokesperson for NFRC Scotland said: “NFRC Scotland remains committed to ensuring roofing skills are recognised as vital to Scotland’s future construction workforce. By working with our members, parliamentarians, and local authorities, we are tackling the skills shortage head-on and inspiring the next generation to see roofing as a rewarding and sustainable career.”