Paragon Skills reaccredited to the Matrix Standard following growth, innovation and sector expertise

Paragon Skills is proud to announce its successful reaccreditation to the Matrix Standard, the international benchmark for organisations delivering high-quality information, advice, and guidance (IAG).

With over 25 years of experience supporting learners and employers across England, Paragon Skills has undergone significant transformation since its last assessment in 2022. Now part of the Knovia Group, the organisation benefits from shared business support functions, allowing its teams to focus fully on delivering outstanding teaching and learning.

Sector-led structure and specialisation

Paragon Skills has formalised its sector-specific approach with two distinct brands:

• Paragon Skills for Care – focused on Adult Social Care
• Shaping Lives for Early Years – focused on Early Years and Residential Childcare

This shift, along with streamlining the number of apprenticeship standards from 40 to 12, has enabled staff to develop deep industry expertise. Learners benefit from tutors with specialist knowledge, and staff are supported by leaders who are well-connected across industry networks.

Growth and innovation

Since 2022:

• Learner numbers have grown from 4,800 to over 8,500 between Paragon Skills and Shaping Lives
• Levy-funded apprenticeships now account for 80% of delivery
• Elevate Programmes, blending online workshops and e-learning, are now standard across over half of all programmes
• A full Ofsted inspection in 2023 resulted in a ‘Good’ rating

Paragon Skills’ in-house Recruitment Service offers free support to employer partners, reducing costs and improving onboarding. Dedicated Business Development and Client Relationship Teams provide tailored IAG to employers, covering funding, eligibility, programme content, and strategic workforce planning.

Inclusive and impactful IAG

Paragon Skills has around 250 staff involved in delivering IAG, supported by a formal policy and a strong digital presence, including self-serve resources via its Apprenticeship Hub, Careers Hub, and Employer Hub.

Innovative roles such as Workshop Tutors, Development Coaches, and Quality Improvement Coaches enhance learner support and staff development. The Additional Learning Support (ALS) and Functional Skills Teams provide targeted IAG, including through the Time for M.E (Maths & English) initiative and Cognassist assessments.

Creative online modules embed IAG in engaging formats, supporting learners with topics such as wellbeing, communication, and EPA preparation.

What’s working well

The Matrix assessment highlighted several strengths:

• Sector-based structure and reduced standards have improved IAG quality
• Staff development is a priority, with access to training via LITMOS and strong internal communications
• A positive, supportive culture empowers staff and learners alike
• The graduate scheme helps train industry professionals into teaching roles
• Learners praised their Personal Tutors for being accessible, supportive, and trusted sources of guidance
• Significant investment in ALS and Functional Skills ensures inclusive support, especially for learners with English as an additional language or learning differences.

Demonstrated impact

Paragon Skills tracks learner outcomes through J2 Research, showing:

• 79% remain in employment (16+ hours/week)
• 95% report improved job performance
• 53% received a pay rise or promotion
• 65% achieve a merit or distinction
• 90% progress to a positive destination

Learner feedback confirms the value of IAG:

• 83% felt enrolment provided the information they needed
• 81% said IAG helped them discover their ambitions
• 82% felt guided on how to achieve them

Roger Chapman, Head of the Matrix Service for The Growth Company said:

“This is a fantastic achievement for Paragon Skills and I would like to congratulate the team on their success. We believe that at the heart of high-quality advice and support services are strong leadership, excellent service and a focus on continuous improvement, all underpinned by effective use of the resources available.  The matrix Standard is designed to benchmark organisations against best practice in these areas. With their accreditation success, Paragon Skills is working to provide the best possible support to their clients.”

Commenting on the award, Graham Heath, Head of Quality at Paragon Skills said:

“At Paragon Skills, we’re committed to delivering a Careers, Information, Advice and Guidance (CIAG) programme that is accessible, impartial, and consistent. We take pride in encouraging individuals to be ambitious and supporting them to achieve their educational and career goals. Achieving the Matrix Standard once again is a reflection of that commitment. Our learners and employers can expect a rich, skills-focused curriculum designed to support lifelong learning and meaningful employment. We aim to develop confident professionals and valued members of society, delivered through experienced staff who treat every individual with respect and dignity.”

For more information about the matrix Standard please visit www.matrixStandard.com.