Why do I need a STEP qualification?
A STEP qualification is an academic and professional qualification recognised by the industry. A person who passes the STEP Diploma, and who has two years’ experience of working in the trust and estate field, may be admitted to full membership of STEP, which provides enhanced career opportunities. Full members are entitled to use the letters TEP (Trust and Estate Practitioner) after their name and are the most experienced and senior practitioners in the field of trusts and estates. Also, many jurisdictions require or encourage STEP membership.
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At what stage in my career should I take the exams?
You can either begin by studying the STEP Foundation Certificate or the STEP Diploma, depending on your level of experience and qualifications.
The STEP Foundation Certificate is targeted towards those with little or no experience of trusts and estates, whereas the STEP Diploma for England & Wales (Trusts and Estates) is suitable for candidates who have a greater understanding of trusts and estates.
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What are my long-term career prospects?
The fact that you have completed a STEP qualification shows a knowledge and understanding of trusts and estates that will be converted into a practical, applied competence.
Full STEP membership entitles you to use the letters TEP (Trust and Estate Practitioner) after your name. This will enhance your professional credentials, as members of STEP are the most experienced and senior practitioners in the field of trusts and estates and are recognised as the experts to whom others turn to for good quality advice.
The TEP designation and specialist qualifications also offer market advantage, transferable experience and a salary premium.
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Will I have flexibility in my career?
Yes, the qualification covers a number of different topics in the modules set, which allows you to have a more rounded understanding of the field of trusts and estates.
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Which areas can I specialise in?
STEP members specialise in many areas, including:
- Charities - Formation and Administration
- Company Formations
- Company Management
- Compliance
- Contentious Trusts
- Estate Adminstration and Accounting
- Estate Planning
- Executorship & Probate
- Family Office Administration
- Foundations
- Insurance
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- Mediation
- Mental Capacity Issues
- Philanthropy
- Probate
- Rural Family & Business Administration
- Tax Planning
- Trust Accounting
- Trust Administration
- Trust Formation
- Will Writing
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What opportunities for professional development are there?
It is compulsory for STEP members to continue their professional development in order to ensure that they maintain a high standard of professional practice and so protect the interests of their clients and the Society. In order to help maintain this high standard, the Society has comprehensive CPD schemes for members in England and Wales, Scotland and those working in the "low tax" jurisdictions.
Visit www.step.org/cpd
to learn more about the specific educational programmes provided.
STEP also hold various conferences and events which provide structured training. For full details visit www.step.org/conferences. | top |
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Why become a TEP?
See STEP`s brochure on becoming a TEP | top |