With a decade of growth and innovation behind it, Moonstone Business School of Excellence (MBSE) celebrates its 10th anniversary today, 27 March.
Established in 2015 after acquiring PSG Academy, the Moonstone Group launched its training division, initially catering to corporate insurance companies with INSETA-accredited qualifications in long-term and short-term insurance.
MBSE has evolved into a leading online education provider in the financial services sector. Today, its online platform offers a diverse range of qualifications from NQF Level 4 to Level 8, alongside various short courses tailored for professionals.
“Our mission remains focused on delivering quality online education, ensuring students gain the practical skills and knowledge required to excel in their careers,” says Monique Brummer, MBSE’s operations manager.
Reflecting on MBSE’s growth trajectory, Brummer highlights the significant expansion from its humble beginnings with two staff members offering three INSETA-based qualifications. The school’s staff has grown more than tenfold, and MBSE has secured four Council on Higher Education accreditations and two accreditations from the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO). MBSE is also a recognised CPD provider with multiple professional bodies and an approved education provider by the Financial Planning Institute of Southern Africa.
“MBSE added short courses to its offering to address the growing need in the market, and we are very proud to be the preferred Class of Business, RE 5, and legislative training partner of numerous financial services providers,” says Brummer.
As MBSE’s offerings expanded, so did its student body, with thousands of students now contributing to the professionalisation of the industry as successful MBSE alumni.
Brummer notes that the educational landscape underwent a significant transformation during the 2020 pandemic, with institutions adapting to online learning environments.
“However, MBSE was already well positioned by being accredited as an online distance education provider, and we could build on enhancing an already existing online platform.”
She adds that MBSE has seen an increase in demand by students who prefer online studies because of the flexibility it offers.
“And we continually assess student feedback and input from industry to improve the learning experience.”
Student feedback highlights the practical application of course content, the real-world benefits of financial education, and the deeper understanding of industry dynamics.
According to one student, MBSE’s training has significantly improved their decision-making skills, particularly in assessing a client’s financial needs.
“By accurately understanding these needs, I can achieve better outcomes for my clients, resulting in greater satisfaction for both parties. Additionally, it helped me enhance my client relationships, which, in turn, fosters trust between me and my clients. It boosts my confidence when I gain a deeper understanding of financial planning, and these tools can even improve my own financial planning.”
Another student reflected on how the coursework provided broader insights into the financial landscape.
“This was truly insightful. It helped emphasize the status quo of the environment we live and work in and how times have indeed changed since our predecessors’ times. We worry about things that past generations didn’t have to. Mindfulness is key.”
The complexity of evolving regulations is another area where MBSE’s courses have made a tangible difference.
“Clarified uncertainties over recent regulatory amendments,” said one student, concisely summing up the value of clear, structured learning materials.
For many, the lessons extend beyond professional development and influence their personal financial decisions as well. One student described how the course strengthened their approach to risk assessment:
“Professionally, I’ve applied key principles – from understanding indemnity and insurable interest to analysing economic cycles – to better assess risk and advise clients accordingly. For example, I recently recommended a coverage adjustment based on GDP trends and inflation data, which helped safeguard a client’s assets and build trust. On a personal level, I re-evaluated my own insurance policies using the course’s comparison techniques, finding a more cost-effective option that better meets my family’s needs. Overall, this course has enhanced my decision-making and risk-management skills.”
Beyond technical expertise, MBSE has also helped instil ethical and customer-focused practices.
One student noted, “This course has helped me become more aware of how to treat customers fairly. I now make sure to give clear and honest information, listen to customers’ needs, and focus on what is best for them rather than just making a sale. The course was really engaging, and I enjoyed the content. The material was well-structured, and I appreciated the clear explanations.”
As MBSE celebrates its 10-year milestone, the voices of its students stand as proof of the institution’s influence – not only in shaping careers but also in raising professional standards across the financial services industry.
“MBSE is excited about the next decade. We look forward to the advancements in technology widening access to online education and expanding our global footprint,” says Brummer.
Top choice for further studies
MBSE is an accredited private higher-education institution registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training and an accredited skills development provider for the QCTO.
MBSE’s qualifications are recognised by the Financial Sector Conduct Authority and are approved by the FPI and the Insurance Institute of South Africa.
MBSE offers five accredited qualifications:
- Postgraduate Diploma in Financial Planning (NQF 8)
- Advanced Certificate in Financial Planning (NQF 6)
- Occupational Certificate: Compliance Officer (NQF 6)
- Higher Certificate in Wealth Management (NQF 5)
- Higher Certificate in Short-term Insurance (NQF 5)
Apply today at www.mbse.ac.za.
For more information, contact us at help@mbse.ac.za.
