Sector-based Work Academy Programmes (SWAPs)

A Sector-based Work Academy Programme (SWAP) is a government-supported recruitment and training programme designed to help you fill vacancies with candidates who have received sector-specific pre-employment training.

A SWAP typically includes:

• Pre-employment training

• Work experience, "a day in the life" introduction, or a work placement

• A guaranteed job interview or support through your recruitment process

SWAPs are delivered in partnership with ourselves as the training provider and Jobcentre Plus.

Running a SWAP with us can help you to:

• Access motivated, job-ready candidates

• Reduce recruitment and onboarding costs

• Fill vacancies more quickly

• Improve staff retention

• Shape training around business needs

• Support workforce diversity and inclusion

• Build stronger links with local communities and employment services

SWAPs can also support seasonal recruitment, expansion plans, and hard-to-fill roles.

The SWAPs we run are commonly used in sectors including:

• Warehousing and logistics

• Health and social care

• Hospitality and catering

• Construction

• Retail

• Customer service

• Contact centres

However, SWAPs can be adapted for a wide range of industries and job roles.

A SWAP is usually developed around live vacancies within your organisation.

The programme generally includes:

• Pre-employment training tailored to your sector or roles

• A work placement or work experience opportunity

• A guaranteed interview or support through your recruitment process

Ourselves and Jobcentre Plus will also help coordinate the delivery and candidate referrals.

Yes, employers are normally expected to offer a work experience placement, "a day in the life" introduction or workplace activity as part of the programme.

This gives our candidates the opportunity to:

• Understand the role and workplace expectations better

• Build confidence and practical experience

• Demonstrate their suitability for employment

   

It also allows you to better assess candidates before making any hiring decisions.

No. Most SWAPs are supported through government funding, meaning training costs are often covered or subsidised.

This means no cost to you, and no obligation to hire. All we ask for is a guaranteed interview for our candidates.

Yes. You're encouraged to help shape the programme so the training reflects:

• Specific job requirements

• Workplace standards

• Health and safety expectations

• Customer service skills

• Sector qualifications

• Employability skills

This ensures that candidates are better prepared for your available roles.

No. You're expected to offer a guaranteed interview or support candidates through the recruitment process, but there's no obligation to hire every participant.

You'll retain full control over any recruitment decisions.

Candidates who complete a SWAP often have:

• A clearer understanding of the role

• More realistic expectations

• Greater confidence entering the workplace

• Relevant sector knowledge before starting work

   

This can help improve:

• Employee engagement

• Attendance

• Retention rates

• Overall job satisfaction

Programmes are flexible and can vary depending on your needs and sector requirements.

Most SWAPs last between 2 and 6 weeks, although some may be shorter or longer, depending on:

• Training content

• Qualifications required

• Work placement arrangements