The future of Financial Planning was given a boost recently with the annual University Team Challenge Cup.

The competition, run by the Institute of Financial Planning and Seven Investment Management (7IM), is designed to attract new talent into Financial Planning.

The winners of the competition were a team from Manchester Metropolitan University, winners for the fourth year in a row.

The challenge involved putting together a comprehensive financial plan for a case study.

Lucy Courtenay, IFP qualifications director, said: “We were so impressed by the quality of preparation for their report and the written pack itself, together with their presentations.”

The team, Sarah-Jane Davies, Tom Parker, Josh Guile and Carla Gardner, have also all secured roles within Financial Planning following their graduation.

Carla said: “I am so proud and pleased that we won. It was quite a challenge but will serve us all in good stead for the start of our careers- just itching to get going now!”

The team also won a cheque for £1,500.

Manchester Metropolitan University has strong links with the IFP and its undergraduate degree in Financial Services, Planning and Management was the first to be recognised by the FSA.

It was also the first to offer CFP certification on its degree courses.

Nick Cann, chief executive of the IFP, said: “As the profession develops, the need becomes greater to find and support young people who wish to start a career in Financial Planning.

“Apart from the obvious need and opportunities, this initiative helps the students develop the skills that are needed in the workplace.”