Smarter Business Training For Lasting Impact

Apprenticeship myths and misunderstandings about the role of an apprentice continue to shape how many businesses in England perceive work-based learning, often unfairly. Despite significant reforms over the decades and growing government investment, misconceptions continue to deter organisations from fully embracing apprenticeships as a powerful workforce tool.

When organisations encounter off-the-job hours in apprenticeships, it often triggers the same reaction, 'So that's time when the apprentice isn't working?'

It's an understandable assumption, but the reality is very different and far more valuable. Let’s put a spotlight on training.

Yes, it's that time of year again. National Apprenticeship Week 2026. This year, the event takes place from 9th to 15th February, with the theme Skills For Life.

This guide explores all you need to know now: why organisations should invest in training, the different types of training for employee development, and how training can be delivered.

It is universally understood that today, in educational institutes throughout the UK, Teaching Assistants (TAs) are the backbone of classroom support. From helping Teachers to enhance learning outcomes, to providing vital assistance for pupils with additional needs, their role has never been more important. However, many schools struggle with the question: 'How can we recruit and train professional TAs under budget?'

On the last Friday of September, schools across the UK will be celebrating National Teaching Assistants' Day. This special day provides a heart-warming opportunity to shine a light on the unsung heroes of our classrooms.

Today, we’re proud to announce that we are now offering a Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship tailored specifically for your school.

We take a look at the first 30 days of hiring an apprentice in your business, what they’ll be doing and the ROI for your business in terms of tasks and activities for productivity and impact

We’re excited to announce a brand-new opportunity for schools and aspiring education professionals alike. Starting this October, Swarm Training will be delivering a Level 3 TA apprenticeship, designed to help schools train high-quality Teaching Assistants (TAs). This is more than just a course; it’s a career-launching opportunity for aspiring TAs and a strategic solution for schools looking to strengthen their support staff.

Published figures at the end of last year indicate that there’s a growing urgency around bridging the NEET gap, but what does that actually mean?

Let's explore what NEET is and how role models are fundamental in bridging the NEET gap.

At Swarm Training, we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive at work, no matter what challenges they face. That’s why we’re delighted to announce that we’ve joined the Disability Confident scheme.

Our membership in the Government's Disability Confident scheme is a reflection of our ongoing commitment to creating an inclusive, supportive, and accessible workplace. At Swarm Training, every individual’s strengths are valued.

In this climate, investing in apprenticeships makes more sense than ever. With a larger pool of candidates actively looking for work, businesses have the opportunity to attract the most highly motivated individuals eager to learn and develop their skills. Apprenticeships allow organisations to shape talent from the ground up, tailoring training to meet specific business needs. This is where apprenticeship training providers play a crucial role.

Come and see us at The Forum, Norwich, on Wednesday 18th June, for a coffee together and to talk business growth, skills training and free funding, developing a high performing team, getting a job or building a career.

Our official completion rates for us as apprenticeship providers have finally been updated on the government’s “Find an Apprenticeship” website. We are pleased to say we have one of the highest average achievement rates in the industry of over 70% across our 30 apprenticeship courses.

Swarm will be at the Royal Norfolk Show on 25-26 June 2025 to offer free consultancy and support on people development and building high performing teams. We have so many solutions to the common people/team challenges which businesses struggle with and we’ll have lots available to take away with you that you can put into practice. We look forward to seeing you there!

Are they expensive to run? Who pays for what? And do they really deliver a return on investment?