We’re delighted to now offer the Certificate and Diploma in Financial Studies.
Further information on these highly respected AS and A Level equivalent courses can be found by visiting the London Institute of Banking and Finance website:
Why Study Financial Studies?
Moving into Sixth Form means taking your first steps into the ‘real’ world. You will likely get a part time job, open a bank account if you don’t already have one and take out your first insurance policy in your own name. You may start to use a debit card and, if you go to university, you’ll certainly get into debt!
How will you navigate your way through the financial minefield of bank accounts, credit cards, mortgages, loans, insurance policies etc? How will you ensure your financial sustainability over the short and long term?
On 6 September 2018, the BBC news reported that up to 8.3 million people in the UK are unable to pay off debts or household bills. The consequences of this can be devastating. The Level 3 Certificate and Diploma in Financial Studies (AS and A Level equivalent) will equip you with a financial understanding that many adults lack, ensuring you are prepared to tackle important financial decisions as you go through life.
What Does The Course Involve?
Through the use of the LIBF on line study resources, you will develop independent study skills, enabling you to become an autonomous learner. You may study the Certificate in Financial Studies as a stand-alone, one year qualification. You must pass the Certificate in order to progress to the Diploma. Practical activities involving group work and presentations will develop your team working skills. You will undertake independent research and be expected to keep up to date with current affairs and news stories. You will learn how to analyse financial products and make recommendations for a specific client, eg the best credit card for a young adult, or the best pet or home insurance policy for an older client. You will learn the terminology and jargon associated with financial products.
How Will I Be Assessed?
Exam board: London Institute of Banking and Finance (LIBF). 100% exam based.
| Assessment | Modules | Entry Criteria |
| Certificate: 2 x 45 min, 35 mark m/c questions 2 x 1 ¾ hr exam pre-release case study Diploma: As above plus: 2 x 1 hour 35 mark m/c questions 2 x 2 hour exam pre-release case study | Financial Capability for the immediate and short term. Financial Capability for the medium and long term. Sustainability of an individual’s finances. Sustainability of the financial services system. | 5 x GCSE at Grade 4 or above, including Eng and Maths. Students do not need to have studied Business previously but, where they have, they should have achieved Grade 4 or L2P. |
Leading To A Career In?
Financial Studies is widely recognised by universities and carries the same UCAS points as any A Level. The LIBF itself offers full time undergraduate banking and finance courses. Students who have studied the Diploma in Financial Studies are ideally equipped to progress to careers in the financial world, particularly in the field of financial adviser, mortgage broker, banking, etc.