It was back in the spring of 2014 that both New Meaning Training and New Meaning Construction were conceived. The vision for these two future enterprises was born out of a desire to redefine the paradigms of both education and industry, to create pathways where none existed before.

For years we had grappled with the limitations of traditional vocational training business models, longing for a solution that would empower young people to not only learn valuable skills but also build confidence, expand their horizons and to ultimately forge meaningful careers. It was in this pursuit that the idea of New Meaning Construction took root. We decided to marry a not-for-profit vocational training centre with a profit-making business with real-world work opportunities. Thus we would be able to provide pathways for our graduates, so they not only had the tools but they also had the opportunities to thrive and find meaning through work.

The first vocational training centre opened in High Wycombe in 2015 but it wasn’t until May 2018 that our vision for the training enterprise’s counterpart, New Meaning Construction began to take tangible form. Then in September 2018, having sent a team on a dedicated passive house building training course, we were commissioned for our first building project. The construction of one passive timber frame superstructures on the Gravenhill development was a milestone moment, a testament to our commitment to the vision.

This success was a real boost and we soon found ourselves entrusted with three additional passive superstructure projects on the same site. Fast forward a few years and numerous projects, large and small, now we were a building whole development for a social landlord (see our Bearley project). With each project, we honed our skills, refined our processes, and solidified our reputation as a trusted partner in the construction world, both for private self-build clients and housing associations.

Yet, our journey has been anything but easy. We have faced challenges, setbacks, and moments of uncertainty, especially through the pandemic. But through it all, we have remained steadfast in our belief that every obstacle is an opportunity and every setback a chance to grow stronger and wiser.

As we look back on our journey so far, we do so with pride and gratitude. Each project, each milestone, has brought us one step closer to realising our vision of a future where innovation, sustainability, and social impact converge.

And as we look ahead to the future, we do so with optimism and determination. Our next chapter is already unfolding, with the establishment of a mini NMC factory for offsite construction at a New Meaning Training centre in Reading (NMT Berkshire). Here, young people will not only gain invaluable work experience but also receive paid opportunities to hone their skills and contribute to real-world projects. If it works in Reading we will be able to roll it out to the other locations that run the Construction Skills programme in the future.+

With each new project, each new challenge, we are reminded of the potential that lies within us. For New Meaning Construction is not just a business with a social purpose; it is a symbol of possibility, a beacon of hope for a brighter, more inclusive future.