I’m Katie Jarvis-Grove - Swarm Training Tutor
Introduction: A Passion for Teaching and Developing Others
Hi, I’m Katie Jarvis Grove, and I’ve been proudly tutoring for the past 15 years. My journey into education didn’t begin in a classroom—it began in the business world, where my love for developing people slowly grew into a full-time vocation. Today, as a Swarm Training Tutor, I have the privilege of helping learners grow in confidence, capability, and self-belief across a wide range of professional disciplines.
Building a Foundation in Supply Chain and Procurement
Before stepping into tutoring, my career began in the dynamic world of supply chain. I spent 10 years working across various supply chain roles, gaining a deep understanding of business operations, supplier relationships, logistics, and the complexities of managing product and service flows.
This experience prepared me for my next step: working as a procurement manager in a large buying organisation. The role was demanding, fast-paced, and rich with opportunities to learn. It allowed me to immerse myself in negotiation, stakeholder management, commercial strategy, and process improvement.
During this time, something important happened—I discovered how much I enjoyed supporting others. Whether I was coaching colleagues, sharing knowledge with new starters, or helping teams understand complex procurement processes, I found genuine fulfilment in seeing others develop.
From Corporate Employment to Independent Tutor
While working as a procurement manager, I began delivering training as an additional part of my role. What started as a small aspect of my job quickly became the part I looked forward to most. I realised that teaching wasn’t just an occasional task—it was something I truly loved.
After years of working hard for other people, I reached a turning point. I began to wonder whether I could take the skills I’d built, the industry experience I’d gained, and the passion I felt for teaching, and turn them into a career of their own.
In June 2017, I took the leap. I left full-time employment and set up my own tutoring business. It was both exciting and daunting, but I believed in what I had to offer—and I was ready to build something for myself.
Six years on, that decision remains one of the best I’ve ever made.
Freelancing and the Joy of Working with Diverse Learners
Today, I work with a range of fantastic companies as a freelance tutor, as well as supporting many private clients. This mix of organisational and individual work keeps my role varied, interesting, and continually inspiring.
As a Swarm Training Tutor, I deliver learning across an extensive suite of subjects—reflecting both my background and my ongoing curiosity for how businesses operate and improve. My tutoring portfolio includes:
Supply Chain – my first professional love and a subject I still enjoy teaching immensely
Project Management – helping learners plan, deliver, and evaluate successful projects
Business Analyst Skills – developing analytical thinking and problem-solving approaches
Business Improvement – supporting learners to identify waste, improve processes, and embed efficiencies
Operations Management – exploring how organisations run and how they can run better
And several other business-focused subjects, depending on client needs
What motivates me each day is seeing learners grow, whether they are beginning a new career path, upskilling in their current role, or aspiring to progress into leadership.
Life Outside of Tutoring
While I am deeply dedicated to my work, I also try to make plenty of time for the things that bring me joy outside of the classroom. I absolutely love riding my pony, an activity that provides both mindfulness and a sense of freedom. I also enjoy walking my two Spanish rescue dogs, who have brought so much character and warmth into my life.
When I’m not outdoors, you’ll often find me watching motorsport—a passion that has stayed with me for many years.
Looking Ahead
As I continue my journey as a tutor, I remain driven by the same purpose that inspired me to take the leap back in 2017: supporting people to grow, learn, and realise their own potential. Whether I’m delivering training in supply chain, project management, business analysis, or any other area, I feel grateful every day to be doing work that truly matters.