An Armed Forces resettlement programme delivered by Building Heroes and Reaseheath College in Nantwich has now supported more than 500 veterans and service leavers.
The programme hosted at Reaseheath’s construction department provides practical trade skills and industry qualifications to veterans and service leavers.
To celebrate the milestone, Reaseheath welcomed VIP guests, charity partners, staff, and alumni to a special event at the Nantwich campus.
The course, a five-week intensive programme, equips learners with skills in bricklaying, plastering, tiling, plumbing, painting and decorating, alongside health and safety and employability training.
Delivered in close collaboration between Reaseheath College and Building Heroes, it combines technical instruction with pastoral support, ensuring veterans and service leavers are not only equipped for industry but supported throughout their transition.
Chris Meachem, who took the course in 2018, described the course as ‘life-restoring’.
He said: “You’re learning new skills, but more than that, you’re doing it with people who understand your background. That shared experience really matters.
“The confidence I got from Building Heroes has changed the direction of my life.”
Terry Suckling, one of the latest graduates, added: “This has been the best five weeks. I’m more confident now than I’ve ever been, and I’ve just secured a new job starting in September.
“I’d recommend this to anyone leaving the Forces.”
The course is delivered by Reaseheath staff, many of whom have worked with the programme since its inception.
Andrew Gould, curriculum area manager, and Craig Blount, construction lecturer, have shaped its delivery and ethos.
Marcus Clinton, Principal and CEO of Reaseheath College, said: “We are incredibly proud to reach the milestone of 500 graduates with our highly valued partner Building Heroes.
“I would like to pay tribute to our staff and those from Building Heroes whose commitment allows such programmes to run so successfully.
“This programme is a fantastic example of working in partnership to support reskilling into a priority sector alongside a transition back into civilian life.
“Working as an anchor institution to support the community and individuals is important to the college and we look forward to many more graduates to come.”
Joëlle Warren MBE DL, High Sheriff of Cheshire, who presented the certificates, added: “The Building Heroes programme is an exceptional initiative.
“We’re not just celebrating the success of these graduates but recognising the immense contribution they’ll make to the construction industry.
“Their journey is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of second chances.”
Brendan Williams, Founder of Building Heroes, said: “When we first started, we never imagined we’d reach 500 graduates.
“To see so many veterans succeed, not only in gaining a trade but in regaining their sense of purpose and belonging, is humbling.
“This programme is about more than construction skills; it’s about building a brighter future for those who’ve given so much to our country.”
Andy Gould, Curriculum Area Manager for Construction at Reaseheath, said: “This partnership continues to go from strength to strength. It’s incredible to watch each cohort grow, develop, and succeed.
“We’re not just teaching construction; we’re empowering people to take control of their futures, here’s to recruiting the next 500 graduates to Reaseheath.”
Building Heroes courses at Reaseheath run throughout the year and are open to Armed Forces veterans, those in resettlement, and veteran family members.
To find out more or express interest, visit reaseheath.ac.uk or buildingheroes.org.uk
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