In partnership with the University of Gloucestershire, a Cheltenham business has become the first to deliver financial adviser apprenticeships.

Attivo Group gives its clients confidence and control of their finances by advising them on their investments, retirement, tax and estate planning.

It knows that to continue to achieve this, and to be the best independent financial planning company, it needs to recruit and develop the best people.

The scheme enables students to develop the capabilities crucial for a successful career in financial planning, whilst gaining first-hand industry experience.

A spokesperson for Attivo Group said: "Over 12 months, our apprentices spend one day a week in lectures at the university coupled with individual study to achieve the diploma in regulated financial planning, which consists of six exams set out by the Chartered Insurance Institute, the professional body for insurance and financial services.

"Our on-the-job training also includes shadowing our paraplanners and presenting in meetings so you can begin your career in financial services whilst obtaining a professional qualification and earning a full-time salary.

"A university degree is an entry requirement for roles with many employers nowadays, but our financial adviser apprenticeship is open to both school leavers and graduates and offers an alternative route to higher education and a successful career without the university debt."

Here's what some of their current apprentices have to say:

Megan Brinley, client services coordinator, said: "University wasn't for me so the apprenticeship was the perfect way to start my career in financial services at the same time as studying and being paid!"

Fraser McCaslin, business submissions coordinator, added: "The facilities at the university's School of Business and Technology are fantastic and having structured study days helps maintain a good work/study balance."

Charley Kay, platforms coordinator, said: "The support from experienced financial planners at Attivo Group has been fantastic - a career in financial planning has never been so accessible!"

For more information visit www.attivogroup.co.uk or call 01242 585432.