The most interesting area of study so far is learning about macroeconomic conditions and the effect on UK financial service after our exit from the European Union. As fun as learning about the tax treatment of an OEIC is, governmental and European policymaking is much more interesting.
The major advantage of studying with the Lowes Academy is the speed at which I could pass my first exam.
I passed R02 in 12 weeks (much faster than I would have been able to do alone!).
As a result, I told the Academy coordinators I wanted to go through the whole level-4 diploma with them.
My desire to push through the exams, along with the great relationship I had formed with the academy tutors meant I was very fortunate that, after a discussion with Ian Lowes, I was offered a trainee position.
My motivation is to pass the remaining exams quickly, so I can move into a permanent role with Lowes. .
It is bizarre to think about how quickly things have progressed when the rest of the world is moving so slowly.
If I could change one thing, I would like to experience the academy with a classroom actually filled with learners and to hear about other people’s decisions to do this and their plan of action after the academy. It would also be nice to have a day out too, even to a classroom.
Where do I see it leading?
With the ageing demographic of the financial adviser community, there is a wealth of opportunity out there for new faces to get involved in the profession, provided they have the tools to get qualified.
While the pandemic has been detrimental to many careers, I think now is a great time to enter this industry with the systems in place to study remotely and the opportunities that will arise for the next generation of advisers.
Personally, I hope to be level-4 qualified around my birthday in May, after which I will discuss my future at the company with the managing director.
Alex Molyneux is a graduate trainee at Lows Financial Management in Newcastle
