The London Institute of Banking & Finance (LIBF) and Practical Financial Exams Limited have formally recognised Practical Investment Planning (PIP) as a specialist unit for the Advanced Diploma in Financial Advice qualification.
The Diploma, a RQF Level 6 UK Financial Planning qualification, comprises four units; taxation, trusts and tax compliance; managing investments; pension transfers or financial planning in retirement; and a specialist unit. Advisers can now use the PIP qualification as their specialist unit.
John Somerville, head of financial services at LIBF, said: “Investment planning is an important skill for any adviser, but particularly for those with clients who have more complex needs. As a qualification, Practical Investment Planning fits in well with our ethos of providing qualifications that take a practical approach and really bring learning to life.
“It also mirrors some of the innovative approaches we take in the assessment of individuals’ skills and knowledge. Practical Financial Exams Limited’s accreditation process is very robust and to a very high standard, so it’s an organisation that we are happy to endorse.”
Michael Pashley, managing director at Practical Financial Exams Limited, said the PIP unit can be comfortably sat alongside the other three compulsory units thanks to the fact it’s coursework-based.
Pashley added: “Alternatively, it can be tackled on its own outside the pressure of the other units. We’d recommend that anyone planning to, or already undergoing, their Chartered journey with the LIBF consider PIP as their chosen specialist unit.
“My team and I are absolutely delighted with this recognition, and we look forward to working with the LIBF going forward. It enables us to provide our PIP candidates with not only a brilliant qualification, but to help with their LIBF Advanced Diploma and Chartered status as well.”
