Paraplanner and financial planner
Level 4 · HigherLegal, finance and accounting 2 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
Paraplanners and financial planners support or lead the process of researching, analysing, and producing financial plans and suitability reports for clients, working in IFA firms, wealth managers, and financial planning practices. Apprentices at Level 4 develop technical financial planning knowledge across investments, pensions, tax, and protection. The role provides a strong platform for becoming a chartered financial planner.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Financial planning process and client needs analysis
Investment theory, risk profiling, and portfolio construction
Pension legislation, types, and retirement planning options
Tax planning including income tax, CGT, and inheritance tax
Protection products and their role in financial planning
FCA regulation, suitability requirements, and consumer duty
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Research suitable financial planning solutions for client cases
Produce suitability reports and financial planning recommendations
Analyse investment portfolios and compare product options
Calculate pension projections, tax liabilities, and plan benefits
Prepare client review packs and update financial plans
Ensure all advice files meet compliance and suitability standards
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 4 (Higher) - roughly Foundation-degree level. Usually needs Level 3 (A-levels, a T-Level, or an Advanced apprenticeship) or relevant experience.
What’s next: Can lead to a Level 5/6 apprenticeship or a more senior role.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
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What it’s really like
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