There are a few misunderstandings regarding how ‘structured’ and ‘unstructured’ CPD can be used for gap-fill. The most common is that courses or seminars are automatically structured, whereas reading material is not, but this is not the case. The label ‘structured’ means that the source of information has been independently accredited to match a specific, or a number of specific, FSA learning objectives. As opposed to ‘unstructured’ that could include reading the trade press or attending a conference where no test of the knowledge developed is carried out. I know it is common sense, but I always advise opting for structured CPD gap-fill material over unstructured when given a choice.
It may not always be the easier option but it does remove the danger of potentially having to return to a gap to bridge it again if the unstructured choice is deemed lacking for some reason.
The CII offers solutions for many of the gap-fill requirements through its online tool and most networks and service companies are helping their IFA members with at least some of the requirements. The New Model Business Academy, which is not for profit and free for anyone in the financial services sector to join, is offering a programme which covers all 109 potential outstanding learning objectives at one-day workshops, with subsequent access to an online gap-fill portal. Many providers are also offering gap-fill support, generally free of charge to the adviser community. JP Morgan in particular has some really high-quality material available, details of which you can find in the ‘adviser’ area of its website.
I completely empathise with those of you who think it is unfair that you embarked early on the journey to QCF level-four qualification and have ended up with a pretty large slice of gap-fill to complete as a result, but I urge you to get it done as soon as possible. I cannot imagine anything more frustrating than having completed all your exams in good time, only to fall at the last hurdle.
Gary Kershaw is group compliance director of SimplyBiz
