The inaugural group of students who completed Moonstone Business School of Excellence’s extensive training programme for FAIS representatives, aimed at preparing them for the RE 5 exam, has given the online learning course the thumbs up.
MBSE launched the programme, which follows a six-week study plan to guide students’ learning, in September.
The RE 5, officially known as the Regulatory Examination 5, is a crucial certification exam for representatives in the financial services industry. It is part of the requirements under the Financial Advisory and Intermediary Services Act, which regulates the industry to ensure that financial advisers and representatives are competent and act in the best interests of clients.
MBSE’s RE training empowers students with the knowledge and skills to tackle the RE 5 with confidence. With the first intake of students having completed the programme last week, Monique Brummer, MBSE’s operations manager, says feedback from students so far has been fantastic.
“Students feel that the content is thorough, and from their feedback, we can see that we are achieving what we set out to do. We want students to have an enjoyable learning experience with us,” she says.
The training equips students to sit the exam, but it is not an exam prep “crash course”. MBSE’s training provides students with a thorough understanding of the FAIS regulatory environment.
The curriculum covers essential topics, including the FAIS Act and its subordinate legislation, the Financial Intelligence Centre Act, and the roles and responsibilities of representatives, key individuals, and compliance officers.
The training also includes a series of videos that show students how what they are learning applies in the functioning as a FAIS representative.
Students have access to the programme co-ordinator if they have any academic queries.
Brummer explains that MBSE’s RE training programme was developed using the building block technique.
“This means that we have assessments after each block to test understanding and provide support. The assessments are not there to block or hinder progress. Students have multiple attempts, and the purpose is to use them as a learning tool to help master each block before moving on,” Brummer says.
MBSE provides a six-week study plan to guide students’ learning. However, Brummer says, based on feedback, some students would have liked to complete it faster.
“Going forward, we will allow students to work ahead at their own pace, whereas the first cohort was required to stick to the set timeframe,” she says.
Regardless, students have 12 months of access to the learning material from their enrolment date if they need more time.
The training is tailored primarily for representatives working under supervision who are preparing to write the RE 5. It’s also ideal for those considering a career in the financial services industry, or anyone seeking a comprehensive understanding of the FAIS regulatory environment.
As with all its courses and qualifications, MBSE’s RE training is designed for flexibility and accessibility. The course is fully online, allowing students to enrol at any time during the year.
It is important to note that the RE training does not include the RE exam. Students must book and take the exam separately through a Regulatory Exam Body after completing the training.
Click here to find out more about MBSE’s RE training and to enrol.
More about MBSE
MBSE provides qualifications, Class of Business training, CPD activities, and short courses to the financial services market. MBSE is known for its deep expertise and a strong reputation in the industry, focusing on delivering high-quality, industry-relevant training. MBSE’s programmes are designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their careers, particularly in fields that require an understanding of complex regulatory environments.
Click here to find out more about MBSE’s range of learning programmes.
