Qualification

On successful completion of the programme the learner is awarded a FETAC Level 5 Certificate in Thatching

The Course

The Thatcher Traineeship aims to provide unemployed people with an excellent foundation in the skills and practical experience required to gain employment in the thatching sector.

The duration of the Thatcher programme is 51 weeks consisting of 35 weeks off-the-job training and 16 weeks on-the-job training with a host employer.

The Job

A Thatcher is a skilled worker capable of competently carrying out in an autonomous and responsible fashion, the range of tasks required in the fabrication of pitched thatched roofs. This includes the operation of a safe site and work practices, the buying, transportation and storage of thatching materials and the application of thatch to roofs.

The Person

You must have reached the current statutory school leaving age of 16 years. Mature applicants are particularly encouraged as many construction sites require roofers to be over 21 years of age. Two years construction site experience would be desirable. You must have basic numeracy and literacy skills

You must be physically fit, capable of working safely at heights and be able to handle a variety of heavy hand tools and instruments. You must also be a team player, willing to work all year round and be willing to work outdoors.

Progression

When qualified you will have opportunities to progress to senior positions in the Thatching industry through your experience and further education or training which you may undertake in similar or related fields.  

So What Next?

You should contact your local FÁS Office for information on how to register for this Traineeship and the location and date of the next available course.

In preparation for the Traineeship you may choose to identify a potential Host Employer for the Work Place Training element of the course.