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East Sussex College to launch roofing apprenticeship to close skills gap

Its Level 2 Roofer Apprenticeship will launch in September 2026, aiming to help tackle the shortage of skilled roofers in the area. 

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East Sussex College is launching a new Level 2 Roofer Apprenticeship in September 2026, aiming to help tackle the shortage of skilled roofers in the area. 

The programme was developed after months of work by a group from the skills and employment East Sussex construction task group, which includes East Sussex County Council, local roofing firms, the National Federation of Roofing Contractors, Eastbourne Borough Council, and the college.

The National Federation of Roofing Contractors reported more than half of roofing businesses across the UK were experiencing recruitment difficulties, with 65% saying skills shortages were already limiting the amount of work they could take on. 

The same report found the UK would need almost 3,800 extra roofers by 2029, but training routes were on track to deliver only around 1,550 new roofers in that time.

Vicki Orbell, head of business development at East Sussex College, said: “We’re very excited about this new roofing apprenticeship, following months of hard work from the construction task group. 

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“By working with industry bodies and employers, we’ve ensured the training reflects real world requirements. 

“From September, we’ll be creating a clear route into skilled work for local people and a sustainable talent pipeline for roofing businesses across East Sussex.”

Rebecca Conroy, CEO and principal at East Sussex College, said: “The launch of our new roofing apprenticeship shows the power of partnership. 

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“When employers, educators and stakeholders work together, we can deliver the skills our county truly needs.”

The Apprenticeship will run for 18 months at the college’s Eastbourne campus, offering specialist facilities without the need for long-distance travel. 

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The programme is being set up to reflect changes in construction, including higher standards in building safety and energy efficiency.

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Sean Wootten, regional manager – London and Southern Counties at National Federation of Roofing Contractors Limited, said: “With higher standards around building safety, energy efficiency and refurbishment, contractors need people with the right skills coming through. 

“This apprenticeship supports employers to invest in the next generation while helping address a shortage that is already constraining growth across the sector.”

Councillor Penny di Cara, lead member for Economy at East Sussex County Council, said: “Local roofing businesses are essential to our economy, but many are struggling to find the skilled workers they need due to lack of locally available training and a low profile of roofing as a career option for young people. 

“We’re delighted to get this apprenticeship up and running so we can give employers a practical way to grow their workforce, invest in skills, and plan for the future. 

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“It is a strong example of what can be achieved when employers, education and local partners work together around a shared goal.”

Eastbourne MP Josh Babarinde OBE, a former student of the college, said: “Apprenticeships can open doors to secure, skilled careers. 

“As someone who studied at the college, I know the difference high-quality education and training can make. 

“This programme will help local people access real opportunities while supporting roofing businesses that are vital to Eastbourne’s growth.”

Joshua Clarke, director at Clarke Roofing, said: “This new roofing apprenticeship represents a significant step forward for the industry in our area. 

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“Crucially, it means we will no longer need to send apprentices to East London for training. 

“Instead, learning and assessment can now take place here in Eastbourne, making the programme far more accessible and sustainable for both employers and apprentices.”

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