KRB Group has partnered with Prestwick Academy to create the ‘Future Roofing Project’, a programme designed to encourage and support the next generation of roofers. The partnership developed after KRB Group attended the school the previous year to deliver roofing skills demonstrations and practical workshops. The success of these sessions highlighted the value of hands-on learning and led to the creation of the ongoing programme. There are currently six students taking part in the course, where they are learning the importance of using roofing materials correctly and in line with manufacturer specifications, an area KRB Group is particularly passionate about. During the 90-minute weekly sessions, students also gain an understanding of head laps and roofing methods appropriate to their local environment, taking into account the wind and rain exposure common across Scotland.

So far, the students have successfully completed one community project, which involved slating a wishing well for a local charity. The project received fantastic feedback and praise for the quality of work delivered by the students. The group is also preparing to begin a re-roofing project for a local alcohol and drug rehabilitation facility. This will provide the students with valuable real-site experience and the opportunity to contribute to a meaningful project that will leave a lasting legacy within the community for years to come.

The ultimate aim of the initiative is to provide students with an alternative career pathway while continuing their school studies. KRB Group is committed to engaging students through practical learning and giving them the opportunity to explore future career options within the construction industry. The skills developed throughout the course help prepare students for the transition into a professional working environment and can support them in securing roofing apprenticeships should they choose that path.

With the roofing industry currently facing a significant skills shortage, initiatives such as this are becoming increasingly important. The programme is an inspiring example of how education and industry can work together to invest in future talent, helping to secure the long-term future of the roofing trade while creating meaningful opportunities for young people.

Permavent products have been utilised throughout the initiative, helping students gain hands-on experience with high-quality roofing materials used across the industry. Permavent is passionate about supporting programmes that encourage and inspire the next generation of roofers. By being involved in initiatives such as the ‘Future Roofing Project’, Permavent is helping to bridge the gap between education and industry, ensuring students not only develop practical skills but also understand the importance of using trusted, specification-compliant roofing systems.

Permavent is committed to helping young people build confidence, knowledge, and experience within a real-world roofing environment. Through partnerships like this, Permavent hopes to play a positive role in supporting skills development and promoting best practice across the roofing industry.