AMP has launched the Horizons Academy Flex Program, a new part-time paid financial planning training program that provides a flexible pathway to the profession for those wanting greater work/life balance.
The Flex Program is for qualified and partially-qualified candidates not able to commit to Horizons’ 10 week signature program and full-time schedule. It comprises formal learning and workplace development, culminating in official status as an AMP Representative.
AMP Horizons Director Tim Steele said the Flex Program will meet growing demand for flexible hours while studying and then entering the workforce – particularly for women wanting greater flexibility.
“Research shows there’s been substantial growth in part-time work over the past 50 years across the board. Women constitute most of this growth, and they comprise three-quarters of part-timers in Australia today, but they perceive the financial planning industry is not offering the flexibility that many need[1].
“This program aims to encourage more women into a profession where they are significantly under-represented by offering part-time study and then part-time work as they establish their careers – and in general, anyone seeking to combine a greater work/life balance with an exciting and fulfilling career,” Mr Steele said.
AMP Horizons Flex Program Overview
Piloting in Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney, the program comprises of formal and workplace learning, involving:
- Weeks 1-2: Two weeks full-time residential study at AMP Horizons in Sydney (must have completed two modules of Diploma of Financial Services/RG146 compliance at this point).
- Weeks 3 – 7: Five weeks part-time practice placement at Horizons Financial Group in candidate’s home region, including structured learning and practice manager observations and mentoring.
- Week 8: One week full-time skills assessment lab at AMP Horizons in Sydney to attain Representative status (must have completed Diploma of Financial Services/RG146 compliance at this point).
- Weeks 9 – 20: 12 weeks part-time Associate Planner placement in Horizons Financial Group in home region, with first client contact established under the guidance of practice managers.
- Further 7 months : Full-time or part-time professional year as Representative.
The first intake of the new program will start on 29 October 2012.
For further information or to apply for the AMP Horizons Flex Program, please click here.
