Building Heroes and Thakeham Mark Year Three Supporting the Armed Forces Community into Construction Pathways
Posted by: electime 3rd November 2025
Building Heroes Education Foundation is proud to celebrate its third consecutive year of partnership with Thakeham, continuing their shared mission to create meaningful opportunities for veterans, service leavers, and military families within the construction and housebuilding sectors.
This ongoing collaboration underscores Thakeham’s commitment as a Gold Employer Recognition Scheme Award holder of the Armed Forces Covenant, reflecting a deep and sustained dedication to supporting those who have served.
A Partnership Built on Purpose
Now entering its third year, the partnership between Thakeham and Building Heroes has evolved from sponsorship into a hands-on, purpose-driven collaboration that connects the Armed Forces community directly with opportunities across the construction industry.
Through work placements, site tours, and employment pathways, the partnership provides invaluable, real-world experience for Building Heroes learners and alumni, helping them bridge the gap between training and employment.
At Welborne Garden Village in Hampshire, Thakeham has welcomed learners from the Basingstoke Building Heroes Academy to one of its flagship developments, delivered on behalf of the Master Developer, Buckland Group.
These on-site learning experiences offered participants a first-hand look at the phases and complexity of a major residential project, Thakeham’s commitment to sustainability and modern construction methods (including timber frame), and the company’s unwavering focus on quality and community.
“It was a real eye-opener to modern methods of construction. Seeing how the skills we’re developing in the workshop are used on a real housing development brought everything to life. It gave us a genuine feel for what happens as a site develops and helped us understand the commercial environment we could be working in after we finish the programme.”- Building Heroes Learner, Basingstoke Academy
Tailored Work Placements Making a Difference
Earlier this year, Thakeham also supported tailored resettlement opportunities, including a placement for Darren, a Warrant Officer Class One in the British Army with 25 years of service.
During his placement at Welborne Garden Village, Darren gained valuable experience with Thakeham’s site team and electrical subcontractor Read Electrical Services, supported by Managing Director Paul Read.
“Thank you for the opportunity your team gave me. It was a great experience, especially with Paul’s team who welcomed me in and empowered me to get hands-on with tasks suited to my ability. It gave me a great eye-opener into how domestic sites are organised and how you work alongside different trades. Paul told me to call him once I leave the Forces, which was a real morale boost.” –
Darren, Warrant Officer Class One, British Army.
Following this placement, Darren secured a further opportunity with Darke and Taylor Ltd, supporting his transition to civilian life with potential for full-time employment.
“The experience has definitely helped me explore my civilian career options with greater confidence and determination.”- Darren.
Empowering Veterans through Collaboration
Building Heroes graduate Sachin Limbu also benefited from a placement opportunity with Thakeham earlier this year:
“It was a rewarding experience that gave a valuable insight into the industry and helped me develop a range of practical skills. The team was incredibly welcoming and supportive, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have been part of such a professional organisation.
The placement has definitely contributed to my career development, and I feel confident moving forward as a result.”- Sachin Limbu, Building Heroes Graduate.
Shared Commitment to the Armed Forces Community
Chris Charles, CEO of Building Heroes, commented: “As we enter our third year of partnership with Thakeham, we are proud to celebrate not only the longevity but the real impact this collaboration has achieved. Together, we have helped veterans and service leavers gain the confidence, skills, and connections they need to succeed in construction. Thakeham’s genuine commitment to the Armed Forces community shines through everything they do, and we look forward to continuing this journey together to build even greater outcomes in the years ahead.”
Liane Richardson, HR Director at Thakeham, added: “We truly value the skills and qualities that veterans and service leavers bring to our industry and are proud to be continuing our work with Building Heroes to support successful transitions. As a Gold Employer Recognition Scheme Award holder, we understand the need for collaboration between business and the Armed Forces to ensure thriving futures for all.”
A Partnership Delivering Real Impact
Over the past two years, Thakeham’s ongoing support has delivered measurable impact, helping veterans, service leavers and military family members gain insight, practical experience, confidence, and career opportunities within the construction industry.
Thakeham’s support delivers training and wraparound support for a minimum of five learners from the military community each year, enabling Building Heroes to offer training, personalised guidance, and direct links to employment through its network of trusted industry partners.
From national engagement to tailored placements and inspiring site tours, the Thakeham–Building Heroes partnership continues to demonstrate the power of industry and charity working together—building not just homes, but new futures for those who have served.
