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Frequently asked questions about training
The most commonly asked questions in relation to training are answered below. You may search by keyword, or for questions not limited to training see all frequently asked questions.
What is my CPD period?
Usually the calendar year running 1 January to 31 December. Read more about CPD.
How many hours of CPD I am required to do?
As many as required to maintain competence and upskill. An AFA must complete a minimum of 30 hours structured CPD over any two CPD periods. Read more about CPD.
What is included in the full Radar subscription?
Access to over 300 structured CPD articles covering a range of topics, the ability to develop an annual professional development plan (PDP), and to host training records that make up the CPD Log. Excludes Level 5 training courses and some modules for which additional fees apply. Find out more about Radar.
What are the costs involved with Radar?
See our information page about Radar where subscription costs are listed. If you have several staff in in your practice, contact us to see if you are eligible for a discounted subscription.
Can I record my CPD and PDP a different way? Do I have to use Radar?
Yes, the Code of professional Conduct requires you to keep these records but does not prescribe how they must be kept. Radar is a cost-effective and practical option for many advisers. See our CPD Guidance Note and PDP Guidance Note for more information and useful templates.
Why should I subscribe to Radar if I am an RFA with no CPD obligations?
All advisers have competence, knowledge and skill obligations under the Financial Advisers Act 2008, and must act with the care diligence and skill of a prudent adviser. Maintaining your knowledge and upskilling through Continuing Professional Development is important, and best practice, and Radar provides you with a cost-effective way of doing this. Note all advisers will have CPD obligations under the upcoming legislative changes.
How many CPD hours is one Radar article?
Anywhere between ten minutes and two hours depending on content. View all training available via Radar.
How do I know what is counted as CPD?
See our CPD page and download our free CPD Annual Guide.
How many CPD hours do I allocate for external training I completed?
Strategi cannot answer that. Many CPD providers will indicate the number of hours associated with training. Otherwise we may be able to assist with assessing the appropriate number of structured hours. Contact us to discuss.
What should I include in my professional development plan (PDP) and what is the purpose of having one?
Refer to our CPD page and download our free CPD Annual Guide.
Why does Radar run on a full calendar year instead of a two year cycle?
A PDP runs for 1 year so that it is aligned to a ‘CPD period’. The Radar CPD log holds records over a number of years and records can be filtered to show specific periods. Find out more about Radar.
I have completed the National Certificate in Financial Services, what can I do to maintain my knowledge, competence and skill?
Any training that will ensure your knowledge in the areas relevant to the advice you provide, is kept up to date, or provides you with upskilling if you are expanding the services you offer. This could include Radar articles, training provided by your employer, from product providers, industry conferences etc. See Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and our CPD Annual Guide for more information.
What are the fees for each course?
The fees for each course are listed at the bottom of the course information page. For example, see Core Strand and scroll to the bottom of the page. Many online CPD articles are included in a full Radar subscription.
What are the assessments like? Exams or assignments?
Most assessments are paper-based assignments. The only exception is the assessments for the Financial Advice Strand which are an online exam and a portfolio assessment.
How many hours should I be spending on assignments?
It is impossible to provide a definitive answer as that will vary depending on your pre-existing knowledge. Contact us to discuss your situation.
Do I qualify for an exemption based on my other qualifications?
All recognised alternatives to the Level 5 Certificate are listed in Schedule G of the Code of Conduct for Authorised Financial Advisers.
I am new to the industry and want to be a ‘mortgage adviser' – where do I begin?
Strategi recommends you first identify the head group you want to align with and have a chat. The requirements can vary from one group to another and so best to talk to you preferred group in the first instance. You will likely need to complete the Level 5 Residential Property Lending course, in addition to meeting character and other requirements.
When is the next classroom course for Residential Property Lending Strand?
All classroom course dates are listed on the relevant course page, and in the course schedule. If there are no course dates showing, contact us to find out when the next will be scheduled.
Can I do the online course for Residential Property Lending Strand?
Yes, however some banks and head groups require new advisers to do the classroom course. Contact the head group you want to align with and seek their advice.