Free Pitched Roofing Courses to Address Skills Shortage

TO TACKLE the critical skills shortage in the roofing industry, roofing specialist BMI has released free pitched roofing courses for the second half of 2025.

Alongside new course dates, the BMI Academy has bolstered its team with new hires to meet rising demand for hands-on, high-quality training.

The construction sector is facing a well-documented skills crisis, with roofing among the hardest hit. According to the latest National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) State of the Roofing Industry Report, 47% of roofing contractors struggle to recruit skilled workers, highlighting the urgent need for training and investment across the industry.

Pitched Roofing Courses

In response, BMI has released new course dates for its popular pitched roofing programme.

Open to apprentices, contractors, merchants, specifiers, and other roofing professionals, the free courses blend classroom teaching with hands-on practice using real BMI Redland roofing systems. They’re designed to help participants at all levels build practical skills, stay current with industry standards, and gain confidence to make an immediate impact in their day-to-day work.

Stuart Farndell, Lead Technical Trainer at the BMI Academy said: “Roofing isn’t a static trade. There’s always something new to learn, including new systems, updated standards or better ways of working. Whether you’re new to the trade or have years under your belt, the BMI Academy is here to help you sharpen your skills, grow your confidence, and stay industry-ready.”

Flat & Pitched Training

The popular two-day BMI Basic Course – an introduction to Icopal flat and Redland pitched roofing systems – will run at the BMI Academy in Gloucestershire on the following dates:

• 2–3 September
• 7–8 October
• 4–5 November
• 9–10 December

In addition to these free courses, the BMI Academy offers bespoke sessions covering pitched roof estimating, Cambrian Slate installation, essential plain tiling, and understanding British Standards and workmanship best practices.

To deliver this expanded training programme, BMI has invested in its people with the addition of three dedicated Academy staff: Stuart Farndell as Lead Technical Trainer, Ben Prosser as Technical Trainer, and Charlotte Dixon as Marketing & Academy Coordinator. Together they bring extensive industry knowledge and practical expertise to ensure the academy continues to provide the highest quality roofing education.

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