Really simple process. I had thought about this career for years but felt daunting making the leap alone. With the support of the academy I have found a practice that supports my personal ambitions wh... See more
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See what reviewers are saying
The SJP financial advisor academy was fantastic from start to finish. Extremely well organised and professional. From my initial dealings with Craig Townsend, all the way through the process. Having l... See more
Fantastic!! I made the decision to switch profession aged 29, a daunting decision but one where I have not looked back since making the jump. The academy has had a huge impact on the transition... See more
The support from start to finish has been nothing like I have ever experienced. Every single one of the trainers and mentors I have worked with genuinely want me to succeed and they tailor their suppo... See more
Company details
Written by the company
The St. James’s Place Financial Adviser Academy is an award-winning career change programme, helping people retrain as financial advisers. Since 2012, more than 1,350 individuals have joined us, with over 450 successfully establishing their own advice businesses. We provide the qualifications, knowledge, and practical experience to support you every step of the way, whether you’re launching your own practice or joining an existing one. You don’t need a background in finance, just the ambition to make a difference to people’s lives. Your feedback matters. If you’ve been on the journey with us, we’d love you to share your experience and help others understand what the Academy is really like.
Contact info
United Kingdom
- 0208 042 0042
- sjp.academy@sjp.co.uk
- sjp.co.uk/academy
A solid foundation to begin a career in financial services
I thoroughly enjoyed my time in the Adviser Academy. Learning alongside fellow students, all in a similar position to me, was invaluable. The skills I learned, during my year in the Academy, I now use everyday in my new career as a financial planner.
The quality of the teaching was brilliant. Many of the teachers are former financial advisers and are able to ensure that their courses are practical. They also used a more academic approach when they were prepping us for specific exams. These weeks were challenging but I certainly got a lot out of them each time.
The size of my group was nice and small (14). I never felt awkward asking questions and dialogue was encouraged during the classes. For me, the Academy cultivated a supportive atmosphere. Our group were encouraged to work together to accomplish group tasks and, at certain times, we'd give presentations to the whole group.
My advice to anyone thinking of joining would be to stay ahead of the exam and study schedule. I only needed to pass one exam to be accepted onto this academy (RO1). This is a relatively easy exam compared with the exams that follow. Passing one or two more exams before starting the academy would have helped me take the pressure off.
Now that I've graduated from the Academy, I still feel supported by the company and I'm looking forward to forging this new career.
March 29, 2022
Unprompted review
Reply from St. James's Place Financial Adviser Academy
Thank you for sharing your review. It’s wonderful to hear how valuable you found both the training and the supportive environment. Wishing you every success as you continue your career in financial planning! Best - Becky
The SJP Financial Adviser Academy…
The SJP Financial Adviser Academy helped me transition from a completely different industry and gave me all to the training, skills and support I needed to become a confident and competent Financial Adviser. I feel very proud to be part of the SJP family and that I am now able to help people with their financial planning - all of which wouldn't have been possible without the Adviser Academy
May 13, 2022
Unprompted review
Reply from St. James's Place Financial Adviser Academy
Thank you for your lovely review. It’s fantastic to hear how the Academy supported your career change and helped you feel confident as an adviser. We’re delighted you’re part of the SJP family! Best - Becky
This is a great experience…
I really enjoyed my time in the St James’s Place Academy. They provided study material to get through the exams efficiently as well as group training sessions in Manchester. The group of people in my intake were all from different backgrounds and it was great to get to know everyone during my time in the academy. They also provide continuous support following being appointed as an adviser. I would recommend this to anyone who is looking to become a financial adviser or paraplanner.
January 3, 2022
Unprompted review
Reply from St. James's Place Financial Adviser Academy
Thank you for sharing your experience. We’re so pleased you enjoyed your time at the Academy and felt supported throughout. Wishing you every success in your career as an adviser! Best - Becky
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