Walsall roofer Muhammad Farhan, a sheeting and cladding apprentice with SPV Special Projects, has become the first in England to pass an End Point Assessment under the new Roofer Level 2 apprenticeship standard.

Mo has had a promising start to his career, winning the Young Roofer of the Year award at NFRC’s (National Federation of Roofing Contractors) UK Roofing Awards 2020, as well as Apprentice of the Year in Construction and Property in the Greater Birmingham apprenticeship awards, amongst other awards and commendations.

Walsall-based SPV Special Projects, part of the Phoenix Consortia, a group of specialist companies in the UK refurbishment market, undertakes repair and refurbishment of commercial and industrial roofs. The firm is in NFRC membership and works with in partnership with Juniper Training with whom they set up an in-house training academy to train and test construction pathway students and apprentices.

Before beginning his apprenticeship in roof sheeting and cladding, Mo completed a six month introduction to construction course and gained his CSCS card, followed by a work experience placement with SPV Group. He began his apprenticeship in March 2020, meaning he faced challenges due to the Covid-19 pandemic including less time learning on site and fewer face-to-face encounters with his tutors. However he worked hard to overcome these barriers and has consistently excelled, building valuable skills and knowledge of the trade. 

Mo’s end point assessor said:

‘For Muhammad’s end point assessment, he was observed to work safely—including wearing the right safety clothing and equipment—and has shown exceptional tool skills and knowledge for someone within his trade. His manner is respectful and his thirst for knowledge demonstrated: he’s a keen learner and always looking for more knowledge and ways to self-improve. Muhammad shows great problem solving skills, offering solutions to problematic areas.’

‘We’re delighted about his achievements and extend our huge congratulations to him on the completion of his apprenticeship, as well as the awards he’s won along the way, which are all very well deserved.  Mo’s future in the roofing industry is bright.’

Kate Whatley of SPV Special Projects said:

‘We are so proud of Mo becoming the first accredited roofer in the country under the new Roofer Level 2 apprenticeship standard.

‘He was a standout student from the first construction pathway course we offered and the first apprentice we took on from the training centre we operate in partnership with Juniper. His dedication and commitment to developing and improving his skills is second to none and he is fantastic role model and has a fantastic career in front of him in the roofing industry.’

Ruth Scarrott, Head of Careers at NFRC, said:

‘I want to congratulate Mo on all of his hard work and dedication so far—he is the embodiment of new talent choosing the roofing sector. I hope that he continues his journey to develop the skills and technical competence that the roofing sector so desperately needs. SPV are lucky to have you. Onwards and upwards!’