Sesame Bankhall Group welcomes new qualifications route for advisers

Sesame Bankhall Group has given its full support to the new alternative qualification route that has been unveiled today by the Association of Independent Financial Advisers (AIFA).

Ivan Martin, Executive Chairman of Sesame Bankhall Group and Deputy Chairman of the AIFA Council, has long supported a single examination solution based on case studies, as an alternative that sits alongside the traditional examination route, and is delighted by the progress that has been made.

Martin also confirmed that the Group would be offering and promoting the solution to both Sesame and Bankhall members as part of its comprehensive learning and development programme. He commented: “We have always embraced the drive towards higher industry standards but our concern from the outset has been the unintended consequences of forcing experienced, competent advisers down the academic assessment route.

“Traditional examinations are right for some people, but they do not suit everyone. That is why we have been working hard over many months with forward-thinking organisations such as AIFA, BPP Learning Media and CIOBS to help develop a practical case study based examination option that enables quality professional advisers to successfully meet the RDR deadline.

“The fact that this route exceeds the QCF Level 4 requirement also dispels any concerns that alternative forms of assessment could constitute a ‘dumbing down’ of professional standards. We have always said that it would be a travesty to force experienced and competent advisers out of the industry, particularly at a time when consumers need more advice, not less. It is great news that common sense solutions are being developed to help advisers meet the new RDR benchmark.”