{"id":12869,"date":"2026-01-19T10:17:40","date_gmt":"2026-01-19T10:17:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.vwa.co.uk\/blog\/?p=12869"},"modified":"2026-01-19T10:17:41","modified_gmt":"2026-01-19T10:17:41","slug":"planning-food-safety-training-for-2026-where-to-start","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.vwa.co.uk\/blog\/planning-food-safety-training-for-2026-where-to-start\/","title":{"rendered":"Planning Food Safety Training for 2026 &#8211; where to start"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.vwa.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Blue-Black-Modern-Tips-Build-Business-Blog-Banner-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12872 lazyload\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/576;width:1024px;height:auto\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.vwa.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Blue-Black-Modern-Tips-Build-Business-Blog-Banner-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.vwa.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Blue-Black-Modern-Tips-Build-Business-Blog-Banner-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.vwa.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Blue-Black-Modern-Tips-Build-Business-Blog-Banner-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.vwa.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Blue-Black-Modern-Tips-Build-Business-Blog-Banner-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.vwa.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Blue-Black-Modern-Tips-Build-Business-Blog-Banner-2048x1152.jpg 2048w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>For many food manufacturers, planning your training happens reactively \u2014 when a certificate is about to expire, an audit is booked, or a new starter comes onboard. That\u2019s understandable but planning a little earlier can make your year <em>easier to manage and<\/em> build confidence within your teams.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s a simple, practical guide to help you think about training for 2026 in a way that supports your operations and keeps things running smoothly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-default\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Why Planning Matters in Food <\/strong>Industry training<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Food manufacturing environments change constantly \u2014 new products, different processes, staff turnover and evolving regulations. Planning training ahead helps you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Stay compliant with standards such as BRCGS<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Build confidence in your teams<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Avoid last-minute scheduling stress<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ensure new and existing staff get the right training at the right time<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Retain momentum in improvement programmes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>At VWA, we\u2019ve supported food manufacturers with training and development for over 30 years, helping teams stay prepared and productive throughout the year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What Typically Drives Training Needs<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Most manufacturers find they plan training for one of a few common reasons:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Upcoming audit or certification reviews<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Certificates nearing expiry<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>New starters or role changes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Changes to processes, products or equipment<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Areas highlighted by internal audits or near-misses<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Planning well means addressing these needs before they become urgent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p style=\"border-style:none;border-width:0px\"><strong>See all courses <a href=\"https:\/\/www.vwa.co.uk\/all-courses.html?utm_source=courses&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=confidence26&amp;utm_id=E20126\">here<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Common Challenges We See<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When planning training, manufacturers often tell us they struggle with:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Finding time around production schedules<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Coordinating training across shifts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Deciding who needs refresher training versus something new<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keeping track of what\u2019s already been completed<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fitting training in ahead of audits, rather than just before<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>These challenges are completely understandable, especially in busy manufacturing environments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Tips for Planning Training Across the Year<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are a few practical steps you can take now to make training planning smoother:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Create a simple calendar<\/strong><br>Mark audit windows, certificate renewal dates and planned process changes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Match training to needs<\/strong><br>Think about roles and responsibilities \u2014 not just courses. For example, new starters may need introductory food safety or HACCP training, while team leaders might benefit from higher-level courses or refreshers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Spread training across the year<\/strong><br>Avoid clustering all training around audit periods. Spreading it out reduces pressure on resources and helps with retention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Talk with your provider early<\/strong><br>Discuss course availability, in-house options or online delivery early in the year to secure dates that suit your production schedule.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Helping You Plan Your Training<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Beyond delivering courses, VWA also supports businesses in planning their training for the year. This can include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Training Needs Analysis:<\/strong> We review your current training records and audit outcomes to identify gaps and priority areas.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Annual Training Planning:<\/strong> We help create a simple, practical plan for the year ahead, ensuring all staff have the right training at the right time.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>This approach means you can be confident that training is targeted, effective, and aligned with both compliance and operational needs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Contact Claire Lennon to discuss your training needs for the year. <strong>Call 01756 700802 or email claire.lennon@vwa.co.uk<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Supporting Your Team in 2026<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Getting ahead with training planning doesn\u2019t need to be complicated. Even a simple outline of priorities and timelines can make the year smoother and help your teams stay confident, compliant and up to date with industry expectations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re thinking about training for 2026 and would like to explore courses or in-house options, take a look at our full course range or get in touch \u2014 we\u2019re always happy to help.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Key Areas to Think About for 2026 Training<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Different roles and responsibilities require different types of training. Here are some broad areas to consider:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>1. Food Safety and Hygiene<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A strong foundation ensures that everyone understands essential food safety principles. VWA offers a range of courses from basic food safety through to advanced levels that meet the needs of supervisors and managers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Explore <strong>Food Safety Training<\/strong> here: <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.vwa.co.uk\/food-safety\/food-safety-training-courses.html?utm_source=foodsafety&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=confidence26&amp;utm_id=E20126\">Food Safety Training<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-wide\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>2. HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>HACCP remains fundamental to food safety management in manufacturing. Whether it\u2019s introductory training for operatives or more advanced qualifications for HACCP teams and managers, VWA\u2019s RSPH-accredited HACCP courses help teams understand and apply HACCP principles effectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>See <strong>HACCP Training Courses<\/strong> here: <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.vwa.co.uk\/haccp\/haccp-training-courses.html?utm_source=haccp&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=confidence26&amp;utm_id=E20126\">HACCP Training<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-dots\"\/>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-wide\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>3. Auditing and Internal Assurance<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Internal audit skills help you spot issues before they arise during third-party audits. VWA provides auditing courses from introductory auditing skills to <strong>FDQ Lead Auditor<\/strong> training, helping your internal teams build and maintain audit competence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Find <strong>Auditing Courses<\/strong> here: <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.vwa.co.uk\/auditing\/auditing-training-courses.html?utm_source=auditing&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=confidence26&amp;utm_id=E20126\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.vwa.co.uk\/auditing\/auditing-training-courses.html?utm_source=auditing&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=confidence26&amp;utm_id=E20126\">Auditing Training<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-wide\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>4. Refreshers and Updates<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Keeping knowledge current is vital \u2014 especially when standards and guidance change. VWA\u2019s <strong>Food Safety Update<\/strong> and <strong>HACCP Refresher<\/strong> courses provide focused refreshers that keep teams up to date with the latest industry developments and expectations. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Browse refresher and update options: <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.vwa.co.uk\/haccp\/haccp-refresher-course.html?utm_source=HREF&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=confidence26&amp;utm_id=E20126\">HACCP Refresher Training <\/a><\/strong> or <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.vwa.co.uk\/food-safety\/food-safety-update-course.html?utm_source=FSUP&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=confidence26&amp;utm_id=E20126\">Food Safety Update<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-wide\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>5. Specialist and Bespoke Training<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You might also consider specialist topics such as root cause analysis, food allergens, labelling, or tailored in-house training designed to meet your specific requirements \u2014 all of which VWA can provide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Browse refresher and update options: <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.vwa.co.uk\/specialist\/specialist-training-courses.html?utm_source=specialist&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=confidence26&amp;utm_id=E20126\">Specialist Courses<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>For many food manufacturers, planning your training happens reactively \u2014 when a certificate is about to expire, an audit is booked, or a new starter comes onboard. That\u2019s understandable but planning a little earlier can make your year easier to manage and build confidence within your teams. Here\u2019s a simple, practical guide to help you [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":11,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","ast-disable-related-posts":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"set","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-12869","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-food-safety-hygiene-news"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.vwa.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12869","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.vwa.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.vwa.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.vwa.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/11"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.vwa.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=12869"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/www.vwa.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12869\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":12877,"href":"https:\/\/www.vwa.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12869\/revisions\/12877"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.vwa.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=12869"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.vwa.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=12869"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.vwa.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=12869"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}