A fascinating look at the evolution of the production of natural slate is now available in a RIBA-approved site CPD from Welsh Slate.
The RIBA-certified factory tour CPD covers the core curriculum subjects - structural design, construction, technology and engineering - to a general awareness knowledge level and earns architects double CPD points.
The factory tour is of Welsh Slate's main Penrhyn quarry in Bethesda near Bangor in North Wales and typically lasts two hours, giving architects a true appreciation of the demanding working environment and challenges of crafting a natural product.
It includes a 4x4 tour of the quarry area which explains today's working methods of slate extraction in North Wales and specifically Penrhyn which has been home to the world's finest quality slate for centuries.
Architects and other construction professionals then travel to the factory where they witness production techniques, and can even have a go at splitting a slate themselves - a skill which has not changed since the material was first produced for roofing slates almost 2,000 years ago.
The visit includes an overview of all uses of Welsh Slate - roofing, flooring, walling, paving, aggregates, countertops, memorials and Welsh Slateware dinnerware.
Welsh Slate managing director Chris Allwood said: "Architects will see why Penrhyn quarry has prevailed for many centuries and how modern methods of manufacturing are being applied whilst retaining the sense of history and traditional values of loyalty, commitment and the highest quality."
