Paraplanners have been challenged to test their skills by entering a top national award for their profession.

The IFP Paraplanner of the Year Award has opened for entries, with a month for applicants to put themselves forward.

The competition is open to all individuals currently practising as a Paraplanner in the UK. Applicants do not need to be IFP members.

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A special technical award will also be made to the Paraplanner with the best result in the technical questionnaire.

The prizes include a £1,000 cash prize, a place at the IFP Annual Conference, and access to Wizard Learning materials.

The 2014 winner, Dan Atkinson of EQ Investors, said: “To hear my name announced at conference as the winner of this award was amazing.

“It’s a huge honour to be recognised in this way and by such a prestigious client focused organisation.

“Would I recommend Paraplanners enter next year? Definitely - the process is rewarding in itself and the honour of winning incredible.”

The award, sponsored by Parmenion for a third time, with the support of Wizard Learning, represents a difficult challenge for Paraplanners, according to IFP Chief Executive Steve Gazzard CFP^CM.

He said: “Not only does it test candidates’ research ability, and their technical and creative writing skills, all of which are such important areas for a Paraplanner to master, but it also requires a testimonial from an adviser or planner who they work with, ensuring that an element of practical experience is also brought into the assessment process.

“I’m sure that again this year, the standard of entries will be very high and that, as judges, our task to identify the overall winner will be a very tough one. Whoever wins will certainly have proved that they are one of the leading Paraplanners in the UK today.”

He added: “Recognising the great work done by Paraplanners is a key part of the IFP’s significant commitment to the development of Paraplanning.”

Patrick Ingram, head of corporate relationships at Parmenion said: “Paraplanning skills are vital in a successful advisory practice and a good Paraplanner is worth their weight in gold.”

Paraplanners must complete four steps for entry:
• Register their details with the IFP using an online registration form
• Complete the online technical assessment provided by Wizard Learning
• Write a 1000 word essay on a choice of two topics set by the IFP
• Submit a testimonial from an adviser or planner with whom they have worked, to explain why they think the individual deserves to win this accolade.

See the IFP website for more details. Entries close on 10 July.