Six months on: Building futures at the Darlington Skills Academy

As Armed Forces Week shines a spotlight on the contribution of the UK’s service community, it also provides an opportunity to reflect on the progress being made through partnerships that support successful transitions into civilian life. Six months on from launching the Darlington Skills Academy alongside Building Heroes and sister company Lovell, Morgan Sindall Construction is proud to celebrate the impact the initiative is already having - and the opportunities it continues to unlock.

Bringing learning to life

Since opening its doors, the Darlington Skills Academy has welcomed dozens of learners from across the armed forces community. To date, 47 individuals have completed the five-week multi-skills programme, with a further cohort of 15 currently on course.

A standout feature of the academy has been the introduction of site-based insight sessions, giving learners direct exposure to live construction environments. Visits to Morgan Sindall Construction’s project at Marne Barracks and Lovell’s Benwell Dene site have proven particularly impactful.

These experiences play a crucial role in helping learners connect their training with real-world applications. As Nicola Schneider, Deputy Chief Executive, from Building Heroes explains:

“You don’t know what you don’t know. Our learners understand life ‘behind the wire’, and what we’re doing is showing them what’s possible ‘behind the hoarding’ - helping them contextualise their learning and see the breadth of opportunity in construction.”

The opportunity to meet industry professionals, including those who have transitioned from the armed forces into construction careers, adds another powerful dimension, offering relatable role models and building confidence in what is possible.

A partnership that continues to evolve

Collaboration remains at the heart of the academy’s success. Over the past six months, the partnership between Morgan Sindall Construction, Lovell and Building Heroes has developed into what Nicola describes as a “cohesive working group”, united by a shared commitment to delivering meaningful outcomes.

With strong leadership from Armed Forces champions across both businesses, the partnership continues to build momentum - establishing a rhythm that ensures ongoing engagement, responsiveness and innovation.

This extends beyond the academy itself, with the wider Morgan Sindall Group and its supply chain playing a key role in supporting learners. From providing site access and insight sessions to opening doors to employment opportunities across both trade and professional roles, the partnership is creating clear and accessible pathways into the industry.

Supporting the transition journey

Each learner arrives at the academy with a unique background - from those who have served just a few years to those with decades of service under their belts. Many begin the programme with little or no construction knowledge, but all bring a wealth of transferable skills.

The academy’s five-week Level 1 City & Guilds programme offers a practical introduction to construction, enabling learners to explore different trades while gaining essential qualifications, including a Level 1 Health and Safety Award and a CSCS Green Card.

Beyond technical training, the programme is carefully designed to address the wider challenges of transitioning into civilian life. From CV writing and interview preparation to building confidence and understanding the job market, learners are supported every step of the way.

Crucially, the academy also recreates something many service leavers miss - a strong sense of camaraderie.

“There is a real familiarity,” Nicola explains. “The teamwork, the banter, the shared purpose - it’s all there. Construction sites offer that same sense of belonging.”

Real impact: Will’s story

The success of the Darlington Skills Academy is best illustrated through the achievements of its learners. One such story is Will, who progressed from the programme into an apprenticeship through the supply chain - a powerful example of how the academy is helping individuals take the next step in their careers.

Read Will’s full story here >

While every learner’s journey is different, stories like Will’s demonstrate the value of early engagement with industry and the importance of building confidence alongside skills.

Breaking down barriers

Transitioning from military to civilian employment can be challenging, from adapting CVs to navigating applications and interviews. The Darlington Skills Academy helps overcome these barriers by offering funded training, essential equipment and a supportive cohort environment; while also connecting learners directly with employers so they can showcase their skills through real conversations and experiences.

Building confidence and purpose

Feedback from learners highlights the transformational impact of the programme:

“Building Heroes has been the lifeline that I so needed to give me the confidence to start a new chapter in my life… If you’re interested in a career in construction, I would highly recommend it.”

This renewed sense of confidence is a consistent theme. Through hands-on learning, exposure to industry and peer support, learners leave the academy better equipped to make informed decisions about their future.

Looking ahead

The next phase of the Darlington Skills Academy will see the partnership expand its offer even further. Plans are already underway to introduce new training pathways, including a specialist welding and fabrication programme launching later this year.

There is also ongoing exploration of additional courses in areas such as construction management and green skills, ensuring the academy continues to evolve in line with industry needs.

Alongside this, Building Heroes is committed to ensuring ongoing contact and providing continued support, where needed, for a full year post programme.