Trainee Brokers

We have been shortlistedTrainee Brokers | Launching its first training initiative, Connect for Intermediaries introduces its first-ever academy, “Trainee Brokers.”  This is for aspiring mortgage brokers aiming to usher fresh talent into the specialised mortgage sector.

Launched late last year, the programme welcomes brokers re-entering the field after a period of absence. Additionally, it invites accountants, estate agents, letting agents, and property experts to transition into advisory roles.

Furthermore, the initiative embraces Connect’s network members seeking to expand their businesses. These individuals are keen to onboard trainees or recruit new team members, fostering growth within their enterprises.

Although most specialised markets do not require formal mortgage qualifications, lender confidence remains challenging. Many lenders hesitate to accept applications from unregulated advisers or those outside regulated frameworks. This creates barriers for professionals wishing to diversify into mortgage advisory roles.

The Connect for Intermediaries Academy addresses this gap by focusing on upskilling mortgage industry professionals. It equips individuals with the knowledge and qualifications necessary to succeed in a highly competitive market.

The initiative enriches the sector’s talent pool by embracing participants from diverse professional backgrounds. It creates opportunities for seasoned advisers while opening doors for those new to the industry.

This strategic move enhances the mortgage sector’s resilience and dynamism. Connect aims to shape a more robust future for the UK’s specialised mortgage market through this programme.

What will the course cover?

Connect Academy – Course Overview 
Module Topic Area What the Module Covers Skills & Outcomes
1. Core Compliance Training Regulatory Foundations Anti-money laundering, data protection, FCA regulatory expectations, TCF principles, and adviser responsibilities. Ability to stay compliant, identify risks, and meet regulatory standards in every advice process.
2. Introduction to Mortgage Advice Foundations Product types, client needs analysis, affordability basics, property types, and lending criteria. Solid grounding for advisers transitioning into full mortgage roles.
3. BTL & HMO Specialist Lending Advanced Topics Assessing rental affordability, stress tests, HMO licensing fundamentals, multi-unit freehold blocks, and lender appetite. Confident handling of complex property investment cases.
4. Bridging, Commercial & Business Finance Specialist Advice Bridging exit strategies, commercial mortgages, semi-commercial criteria, business loans, and lender expectations. Ability to structure and submit non-standard applications effectively.
5. Credit File & Income Analysis Trainee Broker Development How to read credit files, interpret adverse credit, analyse payslips, SA302s, accounts, dividends, and multi-income structures. Improved accuracy in assessing client readiness and lender suitability.
6. Market Research & Sourcing Tools Research Skills Full training on sourcing systems, lender portals, criteria research methods, packaging requirements, and product comparison skills. Ability to research efficiently, identify product fit, and prepare high-quality recommendations.
7. Sales Techniques & Client Communication Adviser Performance Questioning frameworks, objection handling, rapport-building, telephone and video call delivery, and sales psychology. Confident, persuasive communication leading to stronger client conversions.
8. Lead Generation Training Business Development Social media content strategy, email funnels, paid ads, local SEO awareness, referral partnerships, and content creation. Ability to build and grow a sustainable client pipeline.
9. The Mortgage Application Lifecycle Process & Systems DIP to offer process, packaging, risk checks, documentation standards, case updates, lender communication, and case tracking. Competency in managing applications smoothly from enquiry to completion.
10. Customer Service Excellence Client Care Retention strategies, proactive updates, expectation management, complaint prevention, and client loyalty building. Skills to create long-term clients and five-star customer experiences.
11. Case Study Workshops Practical Development Real-life scenarios across residential, BTL, specialist finance, and bridging cases. Hands-on problem solving and application of learning in real scenarios.
12. Systems & CRM Training Technology Skills Training on Connect CRM workflows, note-taking standards, compliance logging, lender integrations, and case audit preparation. Confident working on internal systems with accuracy and compliance.
13. Introducer & Network Relationships Professional Conduct How to work with introducers, maintain referral relationships, handle cross-referrals, and manage expectations across BDMs. Professional partnership-building and communication skills.
14. Ongoing Mentorship & Competent Adviser Pathway Long-Term Development Shadowing senior advisers, one-to-one coaching, a checklist for CAS, continual CPD modules, and personal development planning. Smooth transition from trainee to fully competent adviser.

Addressing the Needs of the Specialist Mortgage Sector

Liz Syms, CEO of Connect for Intermediaries, highlighted the pressing need for new advisers in the mortgage sector. She emphasised raising standards across the specialist mortgage market while creating more opportunities for aspiring professionals.

Opportunities for All Mortgage Professionals

Even those with existing mortgage qualifications will find value in this training. The course equips advisers to navigate complex cases and deliver expert advice in the specialist mortgage market.

Expanding Training Opportunities

The first session, with eight participants, marks the start of an ambitious series. Seven additional courses are scheduled for the year, with the next session in May. This provides ample opportunities for prospective mortgage advisers to enhance their skills and succeed in this rewarding sector.

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FAQ | Connect Academy  

Question Answer
Who is the course designed for? The programme is built for new and aspiring mortgage advisers, trainee brokers, and individuals transitioning into financial services who want structured training and support.
Do I need previous mortgage experience? No prior experience is required. The course covers all core principles, with mentorship provided throughout your development.
How long does the training take? Training duration varies depending on experience, but most trainees complete the core modules within 8 to 12 weeks before progressing to mentoring and preparation for Competent Adviser Status.
Is the training delivered online or in person? Training is delivered through a blended format, combining online modules, live virtual workshops, in-person sessions, and supported case clinics.
What qualifications will I need before starting? You should already hold or be working towards CeMAP or an equivalent mortgage qualification. Connect Academy can guide you if you’re still studying.
Will I receive compliance and regulatory training? Yes. You will receive full compliance training, including AML, data protection, FCA principles, and fair customer treatment obligations.
Does the programme cover specialist lending? Yes. Trainees learn about BTL, HMOs, multi-unit properties, bridging finance, commercial lending, and complex income assessment.
Is there training on lead generation and marketing? Yes. The course includes modules on social media strategy, referral networks, paid advertising basics, and building a strong pipeline.
Can I get help with real client cases? Trainees receive hands-on support through mentoring sessions, case clinics, and guidance from the Connect for Intermediaries support team.
What support do I get after finishing the course? You continue receiving mentorship, CPD opportunities, technical support, and tools to help you reach Competent Adviser Status confidently.
Does the Academy provide resources and tools? Yes. You will gain access to sourcing systems, calculators, templates, process guides, CRM training, and ongoing learning materials.
Will I learn how to close sales effectively? Yes. Sales training includes communication techniques, objection handling, product presentation, and client follow-up strategies.
How is my progress assessed? Your development is monitored through workshops, case reviews, knowledge checks, practical exercises, and one-to-one mentoring sessions.
Are there opportunities to specialise further? Yes. As you progress, optional advanced modules in commercial lending, bridging, development finance, and protection advice become available.
What is the end goal of the programme? The aim is to equip you with the skills, confidence, and compliance knowledge needed to achieve Competent Adviser Status and begin advising independently.