How to find your finance fit

Apprenticeships are a great way to kickstart a career, allowing you to train and study while gaining practical experience and earning a salary. With apprenticeships leading to highly valued, industry-recognised qualifications, it’s no wonder that 44% of the UK public believe they offer young people better job prospects and preparation for the workplace than university. 

We understand it can be overwhelming being faced with so many apprenticeship routes –  that’s why we have created a flowchart to help you narrow down your options. Answer the questions to identify which of our industry-leading financial apprenticeships is the best choice for you.

Level 3 – Financial Services Administrator

What the apprenticeship involves

The financial services administrator apprenticeship course provides individuals with knowledge and practical skills essential for success in financial services administration. Key learning outcomes include understanding the financial services market structure, role-specific processes and procedures, financial services regulations, products, and systems. Participants also develop awareness of the business landscape, the significance of building relationships with clients and colleagues, and general skills and capabilities within a company. You will gain expertise in tasks such as managing office responsibilities and customer service management.

Who it’s ideal for

• School Leavers & Career Starters – Those seeking an entry point into the financial industry without attending university.
• Career Changers – Professionals transitioning from other industries who want to gain expertise in financial services.
• Existing Employees – Those already working in financial firms who want formal qualifications and career progression.
• Aspiring Financial Administrators – Individuals interested in roles such as client services, investment administration, or operations support.

What qualifications are needed 

To be eligible for apprenticeships, you must be employed in a relevant role. Most providers require at least GCSEs (or equivalent) in Maths and English at Grade 4 (C) or above. Applicants must meet apprenticeship funding rules, meaning they should not already hold a qualification in a similar field at a higher level. The professional qualification obtained is CII/LIBF.

A snapshot of the first year

The focus includes understanding the financial services market structure, gaining knowledge of financial regulations and ethics, developing professional communication skills for client interactions, managing financial documentation and office procedures, and understanding the broader financial landscape and career progression opportunities.

Career progression

• Senior Administrator – Taking on more complex administrative responsibilities within financial firms.
• Paraplanner – Assisting financial advisers by conducting research and preparing client reports.
• Financial Adviser – Providing financial guidance to clients on investments, pensions, and insurance.
• Mortgage Adviser – Specialising in mortgage products and helping clients secure home financing.

Level 3 – Insurance Practitioner

What the apprenticeship involves

The insurance practitioner apprenticeship course teaches individuals about how insurance works, covering policy management, claims handling, and the various types of insurance. Key learning outcomes include understanding various types of insurance products, coverage, and services, providing excellent customer service, comprehending and adhering to regulatory frameworks, learning the process of handling insurance claims, developing skills in assessing and managing risks, and demonstrating ethical behaviour.

Who it’s ideal for

• Entry-Level Candidates – Those new to the insurance sector who want structured training and hands-on experience.
• Career Changers – Professionals transitioning from other industries who seek a recognised qualification in insurance.
• Junior Insurance Brokers – Individuals interested in advising clients and selling insurance products.
• Underwriting Assistants – Those who want to assess risks and determine policy terms.
• Claims Handlers & Loss Adjusters – People looking to specialise in claims assessment and resolution.

What qualifications are needed

To be eligible for apprenticeships, you must be employed in a relevant role. Most providers require at least GCSEs (or equivalent) in Maths and English at Grade 4 (C) or above. Applicants must meet apprenticeship funding rules, meaning they should not already hold a qualification in a similar field at a higher level. The professional qualification obtained is the Certificate in Insurance (CII).

A snapshot of the first year

The focus includes understanding different types of insurance products, gaining knowledge of industry regulations and ethical standards, developing skills in assessing risks and processing claims, learning how to interact with clients professionally, and understanding the broader financial landscape.

Career progression

• Junior Insurance Broker – Representing clients and supporting sales maximisation.
• Underwriting Assistant – Assessing risks and providing guidance on policy terms.
• Claims Handler / Loss Adjuster – Investigating claims and negotiating settlements.
• Account Handler – Managing client portfolios and ensuring policy renewals.

Level 3 – Mortgage Adviser

What the apprenticeship involves

The mortgage adviser apprenticeship course is designed for learners who are new to mortgage advice. It equips individuals with a range of skills and knowledge essential for guiding clients through the mortgage process. Key learning outcomes include developing a comprehensive understanding of various mortgage products, understanding and adhering to regulatory frameworks and legal requirements, learning the end-to-end mortgage application process, acquiring skills in financial analysis to assess clients’ situations, and upholding professional standards. Apprentices face real-world situations, helping them develop interpersonal and communication skills essential for effective client management.

Who it’s ideal for

• Entry-Level Candidates – Those new to the industry who want structured training and hands-on experience.
• Career Changers – Professionals transitioning from other sectors who seek a recognised qualification in mortgage advice.
• Aspiring Mortgage Advisers – Individuals interested in advising clients on mortgage products and financial solutions.
• Customer-Focused Professionals – Those with strong interpersonal skills who want to build relationships with clients.
• Existing Financial Services Employees – People already working in finance who want to specialise in mortgage advice.

What qualifications are needed

To be eligible for apprenticeships, you must be employed in a relevant role. Most providers require at least GCSEs (or equivalent) in Maths and English at Grade 4 (C) or above. Applicants must meet apprenticeship funding rules, meaning they should not already hold a qualification in a similar field at a higher level. The apprenticeship leads to the industry recognised CeMAP qualification (LIBF). CeMAP is recognised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

A snapshot of the first year

The focus includes understanding different mortgage products and customer needs, gaining knowledge of financial regulations and ethics, developing professional communication skills for client interactions, managing documentation for the mortgage application process, and assessing clients’ financial situations.

Career progression

• Mortgage Adviser – Providing clients with tailored mortgage solutions and financial advice.
• Mortgage Broker – Acting as an intermediary between clients and lenders to secure the best mortgage deals.
• Protection Adviser – Specialising in insurance products related to mortgages, such as life insurance and income protection.
• Financial Adviser – Expanding expertise beyond mortgages to offer broader financial planning services.

Level 4 – Financial Adviser

What the apprenticeship involves 

The financial adviser apprenticeship course is designed for apprentices with no experience, although it could also act as a progression opportunity for those in other roles. It typically includes expert-led instruction, mentorship, and real-world application. A financial adviser apprentice will gain a foundational understanding of financial planning principles. Key learning outcomes include developing a deep understanding of various financial products (investments, pensions, insurance, loans), enhancing communication and interpersonal skills for client relationship management, understanding and adhering to regulatory frameworks, gaining expertise in investment strategies and risk management, acquiring skills in financial analysis, and demonstrating ethical behaviour.

Who it’s ideal for 

• Entry-Level Candidates – Those new to financial services who want structured training and hands-on experience.
• Career Changers – Professionals transitioning from other industries who seek a recognised qualification in financial advice.
• Aspiring Financial Advisers – Individuals interested in advising clients on investments, pensions, and financial planning.
• Paraplanners & Mortgage Advisers – Those already working in finance who want to expand their expertise into broader financial advice.
• Customer-Focused Professionals – People with strong interpersonal skills who want to build long-term client relationships.

What qualifications are needed

To be eligible for apprenticeships, you must be employed in a relevant role. Required qualifications typically include A-levels or equivalent with good passes, and at least five GCSEs at grades A to C (9-4), including Maths and English. Applicants must meet apprenticeship funding rules, meaning they should not already hold a qualification in a similar field at a higher level. Successful completion leads to the industry recognised qualification Diploma for Financial Advisers (DipFA). This is an FCA-approved Level 4 qualification.

A snapshot of the first year

The focus includes understanding different financial products and providers, gaining knowledge of financial regulations and ethics, developing professional communication skills for client interactions and financial planning, assessing clients’ financial situations and recommending investment options, and learning how to create tailored financial plans.

Career progression

• Financial Adviser – Providing clients with tailored financial planning and investment advice.
• Wealth Manager – Specialising in managing high-net-worth clients’ portfolios.
• Paraplanner – Supporting financial advisers with research and report preparation.
• Mortgage Adviser – Expanding expertise into mortgage products and home financing.

These apprenticeships provide comprehensive training and development for various roles within the financial services sector. To find out more about how you can enrol in an apprenticeship – contact Simply Academy today. Our knowledgeable team is always available to answer all of your questions and provide you with the expert advice you need to get your new career ambitions off the ground.