Developer Regal London has launched a military veteran training college in partnership with Building Heroes.
The Regal Real Estate Academy will provide on-site certified training, with the first pop-up programme expected at the developer’s larger regenerations Orchard Wharf and Wembley this autumn. It is thought to be the first initiative of this kind from a UK developer.
Regal London will provide 72 initial positions – with three cohorts of 12 military vets positions, alongside three cohorts of 12 local communities.
The five-week programmes will offer a Level 1 Diploma in construction skills, a L1 Health & Safety Award and a Construction Skills Certification Scheme card.
Regal’s plans will help Building Heroes to significantly expand its work to provide construction skills and training to army veterans. To date it has worked with over 1,000 individuals with training, supporting them into employment roles in building and engineering trades.
Regal Real Estate Academy will also work with councils to provide places for local disadvantaged and underrepresented communities that may be struggling to find jobs.
The programme will expand across multiple Regal London sites and is a key part of the company’s new sustainability strategy. As it expands, Regal will offer different roles from front-of-house to asset management, on top of construction training. There will also be a general introduction to the built environment course.
Regal London launched over 20 years ago and has since expanded to more than 140 employees.
Jonathan Seal, chief executive at Regal London, highlighted the importance of “tangible social value” in development.
He said: “We want to see high-quality outcomes where participation in the scheme helps people into employment in real estate and construction. We are committed to making a lasting impact every day by supporting London’s veterans and disadvantaged groups into real estate and long-term employment.”
Brendan Williams, chief executive at Building Heroes, added: “The partnership with Regal London marks an expansion in our thinking and will improve outcomes for those on our courses, providing a direct connection to jobs and the supply chain.”
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