As a member of the Financial Service Skills Council, High Road Training attended a provider forum last week. The purpose of the forum was to present an update on current projects including the exam review and standards reform.

Exam Review.

One task of the FSSC is to review professional qualifications for the industry and provide a single qualifications framework.

As you will be aware, the FSSC has modified the emphasis of exams from approved to appropriate for the role.  Albeit they are still a requirement, but are now defined as fit for purpose. This is in line with the FSAs remit to protect consumers by ensuring firms employ competent people. It is also intended for the qualifications and examinations to represent sound business investment.

We were advised that the FSSC has now published on its website the appropriate examination standards and a list of appropriate examinations.  The examination standards are split into core activities including; knowledge, understanding and application.

Existing industry qualifications have been identified as appropriate examinations, however awarding bodies are to make submissions on examinations to meet the standards by January 2006.

Standards Reform.

A review of National Occupational Standards tailored to financial services has taken place with the industry. The consultation period closed on the 28^th April, with the standards being updated and published on the website in July.

There are 16 core competencies with the intention for a pick and mix approach to suit the activity and involvement of individuals within the industry.

Core Competencies: