Breaking into paraplanning: 'Where do I even start?'

What knowledge, experience and skills will help you get hired? And, once you are hired, how will you know you’ve actually made the right choice? Whether you want to get into paraplanning, are just starting out, or know someone who would love to get their break, this online Assembly – recorded on 9 July 2025 – is jam-packed with insights on making your move into paraplanning. Hear for yourself how our guests took their unique paths into paraplanning Host Caroline Stuart is joined by paraplanning guests Chris Wormwell, Ceetal Katechia and Kez Condy, plus personal development expert Sarah Purves of Aegon. Over the course of one podcast, you’ll discover how each of our paraplanners took very different routes into the profession. Among the topics covered are The multiple pathways into paraplanning (because there's never a ‘right’ route is there?) Tried and tested strategies for overcoming obstacles when starting out (or just started) Building a career plan that works for you Creating your support network Tackling imposter syndrome head-on Vital conversations to have with current or potential employers Don’t forget your CPD Once you’ve listened to this Assembly, you can request a certificate for 1½ hours CPD. Just follow the link below. Thank you Aegon This online Assembly would not be possible without the generous support of Aegon. Thank you to the team at Aegon for supporting next week’s Assembly – and for backing the development of paraplanners and paraplanning in the UK through their support of the Paraplanners’ Assembly. Useful links There are loads of links following this Assembly. First of all, once you’ve listened to this episode, make sure you tap the link to receive your CPD certificate: https://paraplannersassembly.typeform.com/to/ocHx6IFO You can also watch the Replay of this Assembly at Crowdcast (includes Chat): https://www.crowdcast.io/c/5xznwgskdxz9 Or view it on Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/1100103967 Sarah mentioned the fantastic idea of picking people for your ‘personal boardroom’. Here’s a link that tells you more: https://www.personalboardroom.com/for-individuals/ Caroline recommended downloading the PFS’s booklet ‘Getting you started in paraplanning’ (opens a PDF) Chris mentioned The Chimp Paradox – a ‘mind management model grounded in neuroscience’ by Prof Steve Peters. Kez talked about her experience of a paraplanning apprenticeship. To find out more, visit the Skills England Apprenticeship finder, which tells you more about the new combined Financial Planning and Paraplanning apprenticeship. There is currently one provider – Skills Edge Training – but we understand there may be more entering.