Cory Brothers Limited has been a trusted supply chain partner for businesses for over 180 years providing freight forwarding, project logistics, customs clearance, liner, and warehousing.
Head of Strategic Development Mike Bowden explains why they are a Keystone Employer in Suffolk:
What are the benefits of engaging with the Norfolk and Suffolk LSIP?
“At Cory we are committed to supporting young people who are considering a role in shipping. As a keystone employer and by engaging with the Norfolk and Suffolk LSIP at events and through one-to-one conversations, we are able to showcase what a rewarding career in shipping can be to the next generation of employees.”
What is the importance of the LSIP within the local skills Landscape?
”The most important thing is the ability to articulate the employer needs and creating a better alignment between the employer and educator. This will ensure that the workforce is better prepared for current and future job markets.”
What is the value of supporting skills within your workplace?
“One of the key values at Cory Brothers is developing our people. We believe in setting ambitious goals and constantly pushing our own limits, and encourage our team members to surpass themselves, explore new ideas, and innovate. Through this we create a positive and inspiring work environment where people can develop, collaborate, and enjoy what they do.”
Flagship Group – solving the housing crisis in the East of England.
Nadine Tapp Head of Group Academy tells us why the LSIP is important to them.
“As Chair of the Building Growth sector group, I’ve seen first-hand the difference a strong, responsive skills system can make. Working with the Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) has given me clearer insight into the skills landscape – and a platform to voice the real challenges employers like Flagship face”.
“At Flagship, we’ve always taken a hands-on approach to training and growing new talent. But partnering with the LSIP has helped sharpen that focus. It’s allowed us to raise concerns, highlight gaps, and work closer with local providers. A great example is our collaboration with one of our local colleges – a relationship that grew through this work and helped us win the LSIP Sponsored Large Employer Award at the Norfolk Apprenticeships Awards.”
“I’m also proud to contribute as a Keystone Employer for the LSIP, where I can bring a housing and construction perspective to the table and help shape a skills agenda that’s built around the needs of our sector and our places”.
PCE Automation provide bespoke solutions to global manufacturing challenges, and a Suffolk Keystone employer for the Norfolk and Suffolk LSIP.
Managing Director Shaun Wigley explains more:
What are the benefits of engaging with the Norfolk and Suffolk LSIP?
“PCE Automation actively contributes by participating in LSIP surveys and speaking at local events. This engagement has enabled us to share our experience collaborating with local colleges and apprenticeships, while gaining insight into how the LSIP is shaping the skills agenda for Suffolk”.
What is the importance of the LSIP within the local skills landscape?
“The LSIP plays a critical role by giving local businesses a voice to identify specific skills needs within our county and industry. This ensures that training programmes and qualifications are effectively tailored to meet the evolving requirements of the Suffolk economy”.
What is the value of supporting skills within your workplace?
“The future strength of our sector depends on developing talent internally. Through collaboration with educators, trainers, and businesses, the Norfolk and Suffolk LSIP helps maintain a steady pipeline of skilled individuals, safeguarding the sustainability and growth of our industry”.
The event will include a panel discussion from local FE providers, along with a forum to share your views on how we can bridge the gap between education and business in Suffolk.
What you can expect from attend this event?
Updates from local FE providers sharing their expertise and knowledge of what is available for businesses and how to take action
Open and honest discussions to voice challenges and share opportunities
An opportunity to raise questions, provide feedback and discuss key priorities
Networking with businesses and further education representatives from across the county
This event is free to attend, please secure your place here!
Swarm was established to improve the availability of apprenticeships for both learners and employers. The latest LSIP survey indicated that many businesses feel current apprenticeship programs do not meet their diverse needs, particularly for smaller companies where they require employees to perform multiple roles. In response, Swarm have developed over 30 professional business standards across various fields which allows them to tailor apprenticeships to address unique employer requirements. This includes soft skills training, all delivered online for improved accessibility, which is also available to the wider business community, not just apprentices. In the last Ofsted inspection, Swarm was rated as a GOOD provider with outstanding features, and boasts an excellent apprenticeship completion rate exceeding 70%, one of the highest in the industry! Read more including how they can help you with funding and eligibility challenges.
Please tell us a little bit about the work you’ve done with the findings of the LSIP
Swarm was set up with the fundamental aim in mind of making apprenticeships more readily available to learners and employers alike. The LSIP survey showed that businesses felt that apprenticeship programmes didn’t align with their specific business needs; a lot of small businesses need employees who wear multiple hats and the current apprenticeship standards model is more often than not, defined by one specific job role. We can’t change that but our solution is to offer over 30 + professional business standards – ranging from Marketing and Accounts all the way through to Engineering and Carpentry. Although many businesses have people who hold multiple job roles we can tailor the apprenticeship to cater as closely as possible to their unique needs. Our extensive enhanced curriculum allows us to add considerable value by responding to employer and learner needs, including those much needed soft skills, through a programme of additional CPD training offered throughout the year.
Training accessibility still remains an issue so the majority of our business apprenticeships are delivered via one to one or group webinars so anyone with an internet connection can access their learning. Our engineering centre is a ten minute walk from Norwich train station so our apprentices have multiple transport options to get to us and access the innovative Swarm Reagit centre.
We have recognised that there is a significant gap in funded training around ‘soft skills’ so for our apprenticeships we offer our comprehensive and responsive CPD programme but for the wider business community we have put together a low cost selection of accredited soft skills courses, which are delivered both remotely and physically, and can suit any budget.
We understand how confusing the funding and eligibility criteria can be, and how this can be a huge blocker for businesses wanting to train their teams so we ensure our Engagement team are fully up to date on the funding rules and can offer advice, guidance and signposting to businesses who need that help.
Business Growth Support has been a passion of Swarm since day one and we are currently putting a strong bid together to deliver several Enterprise skills bootcamps focussed on setting up, scaling and growing small to medium size businesses.
Please also provide a brief description from your Ofsted report
We were visited by Ofsted in February who came to do an audit of our provision and activities and confirmed that we are a GOOD provider. Amongst so many other things, we were proud to be able to present to them an extraordinary apprenticeship completion rate of over 70% which we know is well above the national average. The inspectors were impressed with all aspects of our provision awarding us outstanding for our leadership and management as well as outstanding for the behaviour and attitudes of our learners. One of the inspectors observed: “The stand out feature is the engagement with employers, that employers support the development of the curriculum, and that Swarm Training are meeting regional needs.”
As proud Headline Sponsor of the Business Zone at this year’s Royal Norfolk Show, we are excited to be part of one of the region’s most anticipated events.
Our presence at the show reflects our commitment to championing Norfolk’s businesses and the future of succession planning. With a strong focus on intergenerational wealth, business continuity, and legacy, we’re here to connect with individuals, families, and business owners who are thinking ahead.
Our experts on the day can talk you through inheritance tax planning, strategies to minimise tax liabilities and ensure that more of your wealth is preserved for future generations.
For both you and your business
Our specialist Employee Benefit Consultants provide employee benefits advice, consultancy and support to clients of all types and sizes, whether they need assistance with workplace pensions, group risk or staff communications.
We are dedicated to servicing local businesses and our aim is to offer our clients unrivalled employee benefits expertise and unmatched levels of service.
How we can help
Whether you need holistic financial advice, understand the evolving landscape of inheritance tax, scaling up or looking to sell your business, our experienced professionals are here to guide you through every decision, we’d love to welcome you to our stand.
Succession Wealth is a trading style of Succession Wealth Management Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Financial Services Register number 588378. For further details on authorisation and registration details, please refer to the Key Disclosures section.”
The Government announced major reforms to apprenticeships in England today, prompting mixed reactions from business and skills leaders across Norfolk and Suffolk. The changes include a 13% increase in the national apprenticeship budget, the introduction of Foundation Apprenticeships in key sectors, and a shift in funding for higher-level qualifications. Regional stakeholders, including the Norfolk & Suffolk Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP), have welcomed aspects of the announcement but caution that more must be done to simplify the system and meet local workforce needs.
Norfolk & Suffolk Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) Skills Director, Dean Pierpoint said, “Businesses will welcome the funding boost announced by Government. Locally, we are bucking the national trend, with growth being seen across both Norfolk and Suffolk in apprenticeship starts. In Q2 of this year, Norfolk saw a 3.72% increase and Suffolk a1.75% increase, this is against the national figure of 0.98%.
“It’s encouraging to see that our region’s business community is committed to using apprenticeships for upskilling new entrants. The government’s announcement, that it will increase the budget for apprenticeships by 13%, presents more opportunity for businesses to engage further with the local skills system. However, the work of the LSIP demonstrates that there is still much work to be done with businesses to unpick the skills system.
“We need to make the complexities of apprenticeships clearer for employers by de-mystifying the process, thus allowing business to make the most of this funding. Fortunately, our regionbenefits from both Apprenticeship Norfolk and Suffolk Apprenticeships, which can support individuals and businesses to make the most of the latest changes.”
Alex Veitch, Director of Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce said, “The BCC has long called for flexibility in the Growth and Skills Levy for employers to invest in pre-apprenticeship training to provide more pathways into technical and vocational careers.
“At a time when there are nearly 1 million NEET young people in the UK, employers will welcome the new Foundation Apprenticeships, with a financial incentive, in key skills shortage areas such as construction.
“However, defunding the majority of Level 7 apprenticeship opportunities is deeply disappointing. We recognise the funding challenges ministers are facing, but skills gaps at higher levels need to be addressed if the Government is to deliver its industrial strategy and growth missions.
“Employers stand ready to work with Skills England to make sure other types of training under the Growth and Skills Levy meet local needs.”
About theNorfolk & Suffolk Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP)
The Norfolk & Suffolk Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) is designed to put employers at the heart of the skills agenda in this region.
Working in collaboration since September 2022, Norfolk and Suffolk Chambers of Commerce, in conjunction with the Department for Education (DfE), continue to highlight the fundamental skills requirements for key sectors across our region and have developed a roadmap for change to help address those skills shortages.
The LSIP fosters stronger relationships with a range of stakeholders, including local authorities, colleges and independent training providers and has continued to ensure that the employer voice is clearly heard.
Climate Change Expo – Tuesday 23rd September, King’s Lynn Corn Exchange Free to attend | Exhibitor stands ONLY £100
The Norfolk Chambers of Commerce and the Borough Council of King’s Lynn & West Norfolk invite you to be part of the region’s most impactful sustainability showcase, theClimate Change Expo 2025.
This is where forward-thinking businesses, innovators, and community leaders come together to shape a cleaner, greener future. As an exhibitor, you’ll position your organisation at the heart of the conversation on climate action. Your customers care about sustainability; show them you do too! Exhibit at the Climate Change Expo and connect with the people ready to invest in a better tomorrow.
Over the course of this free-to-attend, day-long event, you’ll:
– Showcase your climate-conscious products and servicesto an audience actively seeking sustainable solutions.
– Build valuable connectionswith local businesses, councils, and organisations committed to CSR, ESG, and net zero targets.
– Demonstrate leadershipby aligning your brand with one of the most urgent global priorities — tackling climate change.
With space for up to 30 exhibitors, covering everything from green technology and low-carbon construction to energy efficiency, waste reduction, and circular economy innovations, this is the perfect platform to raise your profile, influence decision-makers, and win new business.
For just£100 per stand, your organisation can be part of the movement towards a sustainable future, and make sure the right people know your role in it.
Secure your stand today and inspire change where it matters most.
At this year’s Festival of Knowledge, we had the pleasure of speaking with a representative from Lovells, a leading construction company passionate about inspiring the next generation of talent. Their message was clear — construction is not just about bricklaying; it’s a world full of diverse career opportunities that often go unrecognised.
“Construction is such an underrated industry,” they explained. “There’s a common misconception that it’s only for people who aren’t academic, but in reality, there’s a huge range of roles — from architects and designers to quantity surveyors, estimators, and even administrators — that keep the industry moving.”
The construction sector plays a critical role in building our communities, and yet there’s a noticeable skills gap. Lovells highlighted that for every tradesperson on-site, there are 10 to 15 people behind the scenes ensuring the project runs smoothly. This includes project managers, engineers, health and safety officers, and more — roles that require a broad range of skills and talents.
A Career for Life
One of the most inspiring takeaways from the conversation was the potential for career progression in construction. “There’s a real pathway for growth,” they shared. “You can start as a carpenter or bricklayer and end up as a site manager, construction manager, or even a regional managing director. I know people who started out on the tools and now earn six-figure salaries.”
It’s not just the career progression that makes construction a compelling industry; it’s also the variety of work and environments. “You’re outside, meeting new people, learning new skills, and constantly developing,” they added. “It’s a career where no two days are the same.”
Opportunities for Women in Construction
A key point raised was the increasing number of women in construction roles. Lovells is proud to have female bricklayers, site managers, and other professionals driving their projects forward. “One of our site cleaners is now a trainee site manager — it just shows how accessible career growth is in construction.”
The team emphasised that construction isn’t a ‘one-path’ career. People can start in one role and transition into another, carving out a career that suits their skills and interests.
A Focus on Mental Health
Another inspiring aspect of the conversation was Lovells’ commitment to mental health. Their team has expanded its number of Mental Health First Aiders and regularly runs mental health workshops to ensure their workforce feels supported.
“We’ve seen a shift in recent years. More people are opening up about their struggles, and it’s important they know there’s support on-site,” they explained. “It’s not just about building houses — it’s about building people up too.”
Why Events Like Festival of Knowledge Matter
Lovells’ team praised the Festival of Knowledge for giving them the chance to engage with young people directly. “Events like this are crucial,” they said. “It helps break down the stereotypes around construction and shows students that it’s a career full of opportunities — for everyone.”
As Lovells highlighted, the construction industry has space for every skill set, background, and ambition. Whether you’re hands-on, creative, analytical, or a people person — there’s a role waiting for you.
So, to all the young people who attended the Festival of Knowledge — the future is being built, and you could be a part of it.
We’re thrilled to welcome Ian Hacon to Mentor Monday! Ian is the Founder of Energise Me and brings a unique blend of business leadership, lived experience, and coaching expertise to his work. A former CEO and NED, Ian now specialises in ADHD coaching, helping individuals harness their energy and thrive.
As an ILM Level 5 Coach and Certified ADHD Coach, Ian’s mission is all about unlocking potential through tailored, empowering support. His company, Energise Me, is built on a simple but powerful idea: when you bring the right energy, success and happiness follow.
And when he’s not mentoring, Ian is also an endurance athlete and BMXer!
We’re thrilled to welcome Ian Hacon to Mentor Monday! Ian is the Founder of Energise Me and brings a unique blend of business leadership, lived experience, and coaching expertise to his work. A former CEO and NED, Ian now specialises in ADHD coaching, helping individuals harness their energy and thrive.
As an ILM Level 5 Coach and Certified ADHD Coach, Ian’s mission is all about unlocking potential through tailored, empowering support. His company, Energise Me, is built on a simple but powerful idea: when you bring the right energy, success and happiness follow.
And when he’s not mentoring, Ian is also an endurance athlete and BMXer!
Please complete this form once you have booked your session.
Join us for some networking over breakfast with fellow local businesses and employers, where we will provide short update on how the Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) aims to tackle skills shortages in the region.
Agenda:
8:00am -Arrival and networking (30 Minutes)
8:30am -Breakfast served (30 Minutes)
9:00am-LSIP Presentation, Dean Pierpoint (15 Minutes)