Get the roofing training that’s specific to your needs

[NATIONAL Construction Training Services (NCTS) is a training provider for the roofing industry, offering skills and development to anyone who requires access to specialist training across many roofing disciplines, whether they’re a beginner ready to make the next move in their career, an experienced tradesperson looking to improve in a niche or someone who would simply like to gain more confidence.

Their professional and progressive courses are designed to inspire and educate roofers across the UK. They work with roofing federations, training groups, manufacturers and employers from across the industry and can offer a variety of comprehensive courses to fit with all needs – no matter what the skill level.

NCTS currently offers training in two key locations within the UK. Their primary facility in Hoddesdon, Hertfordshire, offers training in areas that include hard metal roofing (copper, zinc and stainless steel) and lead sheet as well as slating and tiling. The second centre is a newly-opened, state-of-the-art academy in Salford, Greater Manchester, and is fullyequipped with everything needed to learn the art of roofing.

They have experienced, fully-qualified tutors in both training facilities, which also feature full-scale simulated training rigs and are wellequipped with the latest tools and equipment.

NCTS have recently announced that specialist applied-skills programme (SAP) funding is now available on a selection of courses. Funded through the CITB, the specialist applied-skills programmes are 18-month long new entrant training programmes. They lead to an NVQ qualification and are considered by trade associations and employers as ‘sector apprenticeships’. With SAP funding, trainees receive a contribution of up to £5,000, leaving a small contribution from the employer. SAP funding is available on the following courses: • NVQ Level 2 and Heritage Level 3 in Leadwork

• NVQ Level 2 and Heritage Level 3 in Hard Metals

• Heritage Roof Slating and Tiling Level 3

CITB have also introduced the ‘Travel to Train’ scheme to help employers with the costs of sending SAP candidates on training. It includes up to 80% of the cost of accommodation, travel and meals, meaning the employer only needs to contribute 20% of the cost.

The grant is available to those registered with CITB who have directly employed full-time staff on the payroll and fulfil the funding eligibility requirements of the CITB’s National Specialist Accredited Centre. They must also be registered with CITB and meet the general grants ‘T&Cs’ as well as the specific grant requirements. q • For information or queries contact jo@ncts.org.uk or call 01992 801914.