Thatcher apprenticeship

Cover commercial, agricultural, domestic, new-build and historic buildings with a variety of differing roof designs and materials.

As a thatcher apprentice, you’ll work with thatched roofs, which are sustainable, environmentally friendly, and have a low carbon footprint. With over 100,000 thatched properties in the UK, many of which are listed, your role will be crucial for preserving heritage and supporting tourism and the economy. Some new buildings in certain areas must also have thatched roofs due to planning regulations. Day-to-day during the thatcher apprenticeship, you’ll work with various types of buildings, including commercial, agricultural, domestic, new-build, and historic structures, each with different roof designs and materials. You’ll learn all about regional styles, materials, and safety measures such as fire prevention and vermin control. You’ll interact with clients, suppliers, and master thatchers, and sometimes with architects, conservation officers, and the public. You’ll spend most of your time working outdoors at heights, and in different weather conditions. You’ll handle all aspects of a job, from sourcing materials to coordinating with other trades, preparing roofs, and completing the thatching work. Some thatchers even grow their own straw and craft their own spars and liggers! 

Duration: 24 months 

Relevant school subjects: History, PE, DT 

Entry requirements for the thatcher apprenticeship: Varies by employer, but you’ll need to be over 16. 

Achievement upon completion: Level 2 (Intermediate)—equivalent to GCSEs 

Potential salary upon completion: £26,000 

Find out more: www.apprenticeshipguide.co.uk