Learning is declining. Not because people don’t want to learn, but because it’s become something we try to fit in around everything else.

As work becomes more complex and collaborative, that gap is starting to show.

This Learning at Work Week, we’re taking a different approach, focusing on small, practical changes that make work feel easier.

Before we log off for Christmas and New Year, we wanted to pause, properly pause. The inbox is quieter, the to-do list has finally stopped growing, and the learning platforms are (mostly) behaving themselves. So, in the spirit of the season, here’s a slightly tongue-in-cheek Learning & Development take on ’Twas the Night Before Christmas …

Learning in small businesses doesn’t always show up as courses or workshops. More often, it’s the small, everyday skills that quietly build capability over time.

Asking for help isn’t cheating, but many of us still behave as if it is. In SMEs, that mindset can quietly limit learning, confidence, and performance.

Learning at Work Week 2025 is a chance to make everyday learning more visible, shared, and intentional. Here are simple, practical ideas SMEs can use to build knowledge together without adding pressure.

E-learning isn’t just for large organisations. For small teams, it can be one of the most effective ways to save time, improve consistency, and support performance without adding complexity.

Slack isn’t just for messages and updates. For SMEs, it can be a simple, cost-effective way to share learning, build skills, and create a culture of continuous improvement.

Employees don’t learn like students. They need training that is relevant, practical, and immediately useful. These seven tactics help you design learning that actually sticks and improves performance.

“There’s an AI for that” is becoming the new default. But more tools don’t always mean better outcomes. The real value of AI comes from how you use it, not just which tool you choose.