This week, 25 students from Coventry University had the unique opportunity to attend an Insight Day on financial planning at Cooper Parry Wealth. The event was designed to provide a comprehensive look into the world of financial planning, offering students both inspiration and practical knowledge.
The afternoon kicked off with an engaging icebreaker activity called ‘People Bingo.’ Students enthusiastically mingled, seeking out peers who matched specific characteristics, such as having a tattoo, speaking multiple languages, or being involved in volunteering. This activity not only broke the ice but also highlighted the diverse backgrounds and interests of the participants.
Following the icebreaker, students were treated to a series of inspirational talks from Cooper Parry Wealth staff working in various roles, including administration, paraplanning, advisory, and compliance and risk. Each speaker shared their unique career journey, detailing how they entered the field of financial planning, and offering insights into balancing professional responsibilities with personal life and ongoing education.
One of the highlights of the day was the opportunity for students to observe a discovery meeting. This session provided a real-world glimpse into how financial planners interact with clients to understand their needs, concerns, goals, and objectives. Students learned about the importance of assessing a client’s attitude to risk, investment structure, tax position, and legacy desires. The session concluded with a demonstration of how financial planners use cashflow modelling to create comprehensive financial plans.
The Insight Day also featured a ‘day in the life’ panel, where students could hear firsthand about the daily experiences of current trainees at Cooper Parry Wealth. This was followed by a Q&A session, allowing students to ask questions and gain deeper insights into the profession.
An interactive financial planning exercise provided a hands-on experience, giving students a taste of what it’s like to work in the field. Additionally, an application skills masterclass was conducted to help students understand the key skills needed for the application process.
The Cooper Parry Wealth team also took the time to explain their application process and the qualities they look for in ideal candidates. They emphasized the importance of aligning with the company’s core values: teamwork, bravery, kindness, authenticity, and a commitment to continuous learning.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to the incredible team at Cooper Parry Wealth for providing our students with such an unforgettable experience. Your dedication and hospitality made them feel truly special. We can’t wait to return in October!