Mathematics graduate Scott Turner, who has passed his first examination on the school’s year-long course, said he had always been intrigued about how financial markets worked but “wanted to know more”.
Mr Turner, a semi-professional footballer who played for Barnsley FC 10-17s and for Loughborough University, said: “While speaking to one of my friends who is a coach for a professional football team, he explained how little some professional footballers know about money management. He has told me endless stories where a young player has gone bankrupt or has had to ask the club for extra financial help.
“With the right information and direction this outcome would not have been necessary. It has made me aware that there are so many areas where financial advice can be used. As I have a footballing background and a keen interest in finance, I thought this was an area where I could possibly excel and so started to look into how to become a financial adviser.”
He said he “stumbled” upon someone who knew the industry and referred him to SBG’s school.
Mr Turner said: “It seemed like the perfect opportunity to progress my knowledge and hopefully become a financial adviser.
“I am now six months into the course. The teaching and support I have received so far have been second to none. Not only that, I have met some great people, including my fellow students and the staff at the FAS, which has made this experience even more enjoyable.”
Background
The FAS was launched by Sesame in June 2011 in an attempt to attract more people into careers as advisers. Students pay a £1000 deposit to study at the school, rising to £20,000, which is payable in instalments as they earn. Bursaries are also available. Lisa Winnard, director of human resources and development at SBG, said the FAS is planning to increase intake from 65 to more than 120 this year.
