New apprenticeship training scheme launches for agents

A national apprenticeships and training organisation, Positive Outcomes, has launched a new professional apprenticeship-based qualification for estate agents.

Backed by the Awarding Body for the Built Environment (ABBE), the National Federation of Property Professionals (NFoPP) and Asset Skills Sector Skills Council, the Estate Agency Award is based on a Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship and Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship training framework.

The new programme is being launched in the South-West and Positive Outcomes plans to extend its availability across the UK from next year. It is the second new apprenticeship scheme for agents, with the Bloom Academy already under way.

The Award is designed to help ambitious estate agents and property professionals boost their professional qualifications.

Sarah Breadner, pictured, who is heading the launch in the South-West, said: “This is a significant development for estate agents seeking to enhance and improve their professional expertise and customer service skills.

“The Awards’ programme is designed to give them an edge over the competition, by delivering practical training on the key aspects of the estate agency profession, and the skills to give their clients the very best service and advice when selling, buying, leasing or renting a property.

“Developing the Award programme and securing the support of the awarding bodies and Sector Skills Council has taken 12 months to complete.

“Positive Outcomes had to demonstrate it has the knowledge, expertise, systems, competency and procedures to effectively manage this unique qualification.

“The training and apprenticeship will give estate agents the skills and confidence to competently undertake all aspects of their business, from accurate valuations, property viewings, marketing and customer service, to spotting and handling signs of money laundering, health and safety in the workplace, legislation, guidelines and codes of practice.

“The property market is becoming increasingly tough and greater legislation and regulation is likely. These new awards will prepare estate agents for the challenges these bring.”

The Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship is a one-year course while the Advanced Apprenticeship Level 3 lasts 18 months.

Both courses can be delivered at estate agents’ own premises by Positive Outcomes’ trainers.

www.positiveoutcomes.org.uk