Hands-on Technical Training and Expertise in Using Lead
and Hard Metals in Construction
The Lead Sheet Association has been in existence for over 85 years and is at the forefront of technical training and expertise for those working in construction using Lead and Hard Metals. It runs a range of courses for metal workers, specifiers, surveyors, contractors and conservationists.
The LSA has created a state of the art, purpose built training facility in East Peckham, Kent. This includes full scale training rigs and resources as well as providing a well-equipped environment in which to learn as it recreates real-life situations. It has developed it’s range of courses over the years in response to the needs of installers and employers, offering a flexible approach to allow participants to get the most out of their training.
The LSA’s Training Prospectus will guide you through the vocational courses and qualifications that are available for those wanting to improve their skills and expertise.
If you are interested in a leadwork or a hard metals course, we recommend that you fill in the relevant self assessment form (below) and we will contact you to discuss the course that most suits your needs.
Training Courses Lead - Apply online >
Training Courses Hard Metals - Apply online >
If you have little or no experience of working with lead, trainees are first introduced to the Basic Welding and Bossing techniques enabling them to then develop their skills through the four modules that make up the City & Guilds 6055 Leadworker’s Certificate. This can then be supplemented by the Advanced Level Module 5.
See our Course Flow Chart for those with little or no experience.
The LSA has also introduced a two year apprenticeship, - the Specialist Apprenticeship Programme (SAP). This leads to a QCF Level 2 Qualification and combines training in the workshop and on site assessment.
See our Course Flow Chart for the experienced Leadworker.
The LSA has also produced films in its workshop, which provide an overview of some key installation processes. These are intended as a guide for those who have some experience of leadwork and will be added to in the future.
On Site Assessment and Training (OSAT) is an important way of ensuring experienced leadworkers and hard metal workers can gain a roofing qualification. It is the best route for those that have built up skills over a number of years but have not taken an official qualification.
Course Quick View:
- Basic Bossing and Welding
- City and Guilds 6055 Leadworkers’ Certificate
- Specialist Apprenticeship Programmes (SAP) in Lead and in Hard Metals
- On-site Assessment and Training (OSAT)
- Heritage Roofing - Lead and Hard Metals Level 3
- Hard Metal Courses (Copper, Zinc & Stainless Steel)
Additional Courses:
The LSA also works with a list of accredited satellite centres around the UK where some of the courses are available.
Funding Options
New sources of funding from the government and bursaries means training can cost little or nothing, for example, the funding for a Specialist Apprentice Programme (SAP) course would leave enough money left over to compensate the employer for lost work hours and disruption. Click here to find out more >
Continuing Professional Development Service (CPD)

The LSA’s courses in leadwork extend beyond the development of hands-on skills training. Short Courses and Seminars are also available and delivered for the design professional, architect and surveyor. It also has courses for supervisors and those responsible for overseeing lead sheet detailing to make sure that it is carried out to the LSA recommendations.
The LSA is also part of the RIBA CPD network, so please click here if you would like to arrange a CPD at your practice. These are free of charge and your practice will receive a complementary copy of Rolled Lead Sheet – the Complete Manual.

