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Thatchers use traditional craft skills, materials and tools to replace and repair thatched roofs.
You could work: freelance / self-employed; managing your own hours
As a thatcher, you'll:
We've identified this as a potential green job
As a thatcher, you'll use environmentally friendly, sustainable materials to insulate the roofs of properties.
Find out more about green careers
You may need to wear safety clothing and use safety equipment.
You could work at a client's home.
Your working environment may be outdoors in all weathers, at height, physically demanding and dusty.
You can get into this job through:
You could apply to do a Roofer Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship.
This will usually take a year and a half to complete and could help you to get a trainee job with a thatching company. You would then do further training in thatching methods with your employer.
The National Society of Master Thatchers (NSMT) also offers an apprenticeship and mentoring scheme.
You'll usually need:
You could start by looking for work as a trainee thatcher or thatcher's labourer. Once you're working, your employer would train you in thatching techniques to eventually qualify as a thatcher.
You may be able to apply directly to thatching companies if you've got experience in related work like roofing or reed cutting.
Your enthusiasm and practical skills will be as important as qualifications.
You may be able to do specialist training courses if you're interested in heritage and conservation skills like thatching. The King's Foundation also runs courses in building crafts, including thatching.
These courses may help you to get a job as a trainee thatcher.
You'll need to:
You may need to relocate to an area where thatching skills are in demand.
You may find it useful to join organisations like the National Society of Master Thatchers to make industry contacts.
You can find out more about thatching from the National Society of Master Thatchers.
With experience, you could set up your own business and take on other thatchers, or train new entrants to the industry.