Air Group has announced the launch of a new industry training academy.

The Air Academy is accredited by the London Institute of Banking and Finance (LIBF) and provides eight learning modules designed to support advisers operating in the later life lending arena. All modules are also aligned to the Equity Release Council’s competency framework.

Once advisers have successfully completed the programme, Air stated that they will then earn accredited status and gain permission to display a unique ‘Accredited Later Life Lending Professional’ digital badge to promote their later life credentials.

Alongside developing an adviser’s understanding of the later life market and achieving accreditation, the later life firm confirmed that those who complete the courses will also be able to access exclusive products from lenders.

“With the later life lending industry rapidly developing and changing, advisers are more focused than ever on building their skill set and understanding how they can best support their customers,” said Air CEO, Stuart Wilson.

“We are therefore delighted to unveil the new look Air Academy which is designed to be the training platform for advisers wishing to hone their skills in this market. Underpinned by advanced technology and knowledgeable experts and alighted to the Equity Release Council’s competency framework, it provides advisers access to eight LIBF-accredited learning modules covering a range of critical later life lending areas.

“Those who complete this CPD training will be able to use the new ‘Accredited Later Life Lending Professional’ digital badge to highlight their expertise to customers as well as their commitment to the ongoing development of their skills.  This is a first for the market and part of our commitment to helping our members.”

Head of financial services at The LIBF, John Somerville, added: “The new ‘Accredited Later Life Lending Professional’ badge will help to build further trust in the industry and to demonstrate the high standards and good practice that we all value.

“With the later life lending market growing significantly over recent years, we’re finding many more advisers want to do more in this area. While the CeMAP and CeReR qualifications are essential foundations for a mortgage career, its vital advisers keep learning and honing their skills as new approaches, products and ideas enter the market.”

Share Story: