We're Finalists for the Training Excellence category in this year's Construction News Awards 2024

We are delighted to announce that we have been selected as finalists for the Training Excellence category at the prestigious Construction News Awards 2024. We entered this award in partnership with our Academy Partner, Vistry Group, to highlight the impact we have on the Armed Forces Community and the construction sector through collaboration.

This partnership in training provision blends traditional and innovative training approaches at our on-site skills academies. Launched in 2023, the Russell Skills Academy in Coggeshall and the Hounsome Fields Skills Academy in Basingstoke are more than training centres—they are transformative spaces. Annually, over 150 military community learners discover how their service-developed transferable skills are valuable within the construction and infrastructure sectors. Our academies offer entry-level training across a spectrum of construction trades, broadening learners' awareness of their capabilities and the industry’s diverse opportunities, supported with employability guidance and wraparound support from the Building Heroes team. The programmes are not only about acquiring new skills; they're about unlocking a new understanding of potential and interests.

Our immersive programmes, in collaboration with our Academy partners, create a bridge for Armed Forces personnel to the construction industry. By linking them with both direct and supply chain employment opportunities, and pathways for further training, we're not only facilitating career transitions but also enriching the sector with dedicated, skilled workers.

These partnerships and programmes embody our commitment to empowering service leavers, contributing their valuable skills to an industry in need of talent. This approach is more than training—it's about creating futures, rebuilding lives, and strengthening an industry pivotal to our economy.

Although we are incredibly proud of the work we do together, hearing it from those who have completed our courses is even more rewarding:

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“The course has given me more experience in construction, and I found it very interesting. It has given me new disciplines. The transition from the military to ‘civvy street’ can be quite difficult, so this has been a great opportunity” Curt, Russell Skills Academy, Coggeshall

“Building Heroes is a fantastic opportunity for service leaders and veterans to gain an understanding of the construction industry. A charitable organisation working with Vistry that’s main focus is to improve the opportunities of personnel looking for work, transitioning to civilian life and importantly allowing veterans the opportunity to gain qualifications, work experience and engage with like-minded individuals.” John, Hounsome Fields Academy, Basingstoke

We are humbled and honoured to receive this recognition, underscoring our unwavering dedication and steadfast support for the Armed Forces. This acknowledgement serves as a testament to the collective efforts and commitment of our team and our partnership with Vistry Group, as we strive for excellence in training provision.

As we eagerly anticipate the upcoming award ceremony on Thursday, 11th July, at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House Hotel on Park Lane in London, we are filled with excitement and anticipation. It will be a great opportunity to celebrate alongside other distinguished finalists and industry leaders, collectively applauding the outstanding achievements within the construction sector.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Construction News Awards for this recognition and look forward to the opportunity to share our experiences and celebrate our collective successes.

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