For the first time ever the Securities & Investment Institute (SII) is offering one of its professional qualifications to school A’level students.
The SII Introduction to Investment Award is available to A’level students at the Hautlieu School in Jersey to study in addition to their A’level subjects. The 40 hour course, which is designed to meet the needs of new entrants to the investment industry, has been sponsored by the Royal Bank of Canada. While undertaking the course study the Hautlieu students will be offered the chance to obtain work experience and advice from Royal Bank of Canada staff.
The Introduction to Investment qualification is designed to provide an overview of the financial services industry and will develop students’ understanding of why there is a need for a regulatory environment and how it operates. It will also provide an insight into the major investment products and services available, including their target audiences.
The Jersey initiative is part of a long term project the SII is running to widen participation in the financial services industry. It is currently offering the Introduction to Investment qualification in several London further education colleges with a number of other colleges throughout the UK awaiting accreditation including Belfast Institute of Further and Higher Education, Oldham College and Park Lane College Leeds.
Seven students at Hautlieu School have piloted the course and as the SII has confirmed Hauliteu as an accredited training provider, students can sit the summer 2006 examination at the school itself.
Ruth Martin, Managing Director of the SII said, “We are delighted to be working with both the Royal Bank of Canada and Hautlieu School in Jersey on this project. Our research shows that it is at the A’level stage that students are looking for an understanding of the finance industry and how job roles relate. The Introduction to Investment Award will offer them a taster and act as a stepping stone for them to develop their careers in this area.”
Ends