The latest development in metal roof training may come as a surprise to some, but it is perhaps one of the more logical progressions in an industry that is trying to persuade contractors that training is the way forward.

When the Lead Sheet Association built its own training centre in East Peckham, an area of Kent more synonymous with hop fields, it was unlikely they were considering its use beyond the traditional lead roofing sector.

However at a time when the FTMRC were looking for a new training facility after the arrangement with the Building Crafts College came to an end, a trial course at East Peckham delivered by VM Zinc in November was quickly followed by a second course in December.

Although the theory introduction to the course needs no special facility, the relatively simple conversion of some of the existing roof models to accept zinc details enabled the trainees to move on from the theory to tackle realistic weathering features.

VM Zinc, having provided the trainers, materials, tools and equipment for the course, were delighted with both the facilities provided and the response from the trainees, which was unilaterally that they wanted the course to go on longer.

Such has been the success of the initial courses, VM Zinc have committed to providing a series of courses which will cover basic and intermediate level training bi-monthly from January to November 2010. There will also be CPD certified one day events for architects, surveyors and specifiers to provide a theory / design insight for zinc specification, as well as hands-on workshop opportunities.

Given the success of the zinc training, the FTMRC are encouraging other manufacturers to consider using the LSA facilities and it is hoped that a copper course will be organised and delivered through Associate members KME early in the New Year, as the next stage in this development.

Training Centre Manager Nigel Johnston was delighted at the success of the zinc courses.

“Even at a time when the construction industry is under so much pressure, it is vital that contractors continue to train their workforce and we are delighted that the facility at East Peckham is now being looked at by other trades in metal roofing through the FTMRC.”

“It does also provide the opportunity for contractors to have an insight into another skill base potential and we have already had zinc contractors expressing an interest in lead courses and vice versa.”

Further details on available training courses for contractors and CPD certified awareness courses for architects and surveyors are available from the FTMRC