Another way to the top

Although a fast track ISO 22222 would not be exam-free and will also not be cheap, it could provide some very experienced advisers with a quicker route to QCA Level 4.

While the CII & PFS are seen as the main professional and educational body for the sector, other smaller institutes continue to deliver really good support for their members. The Institue of Financial Planning falls into the latter category. I like the IFP as it is a sincere, hardworking and aims to build good quality financial planning businesses. I was therefore not surprised to hear it has been developing a set of standards for paraplanners as many of its members employ them. Under their new director of education, Lucy Courtenay, the IFP has established a group of planners and paraplanners to define the job role and to identify the skill set required. It is also considering if a bespoke qualification is required.

IFP has also been running training for paraplanners for over a year and whether the paraplanner role is a stepping stone to becoming a financial planner or a career in its own right, they are people who deserve support and encouragement. So this is an important development. IFP should be congratulated for this work.

The FSSC has recently secured funding to create a National Occupational Standards for paraplanners and I am hopeful that the pioneering work completed by the IFP will be a major influence on the eventually standard.

Peter Williams is head of industry development for Aegon UK