CII follows IFP with paraplanner qualification launch

The Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) is to introduce a Level 4 Certificate in Paraplanning, following in the footsteps of the Institute of Financial Planning (IFP), which launched a similar qualification last year.

Available from January, the qualification will include a new exam unit (J09), which focuses on paraplanning issues, alongside the existing R01, R02 and R03 modules.

The professional body is also introducing the Certificate in Discretionary Investment Management, at Level 4, under new exam unit J10.

Two further modules for advisers working in and wraps and platforms (J11) and individuals operating within senior management and supervisory roles (AF6) have also been developed by the CII.

Steve Jenkins, director of financial markets at the body, said: "Although we have concentrated much of our recent efforts in supporting advisers as they seek to meet the challenges of the RDR we continue to work with practitioners to ensure our qualifications and exams reflect the needs of the profession."

Earlier this year, the CII announced it would recognise the IFP's Certificate in Paraplanning, meaning holders could get 20 non-unit specific credits towards its diplomas.