There is no denying that the insurance industry is continuing to face an uphill challenge regarding the recruitment and retention of talent within the sector. With 88% of HR leaders reporting a skills shortage and 67% revealing a lack of available candidates is suppressing their digital transformation strategy, it’s clear that something needs to be done.

In light of this, Davies is launching its first-ever Insurance Skills Bootcamp on 28 November aimed at helping to close the industry’s skills gap and reshape its future.

The ten-week programme will provide budding learners with the skills they need to kick-start their careers and find long-term success in the insurance landscape, covering areas such as time management, rapport building, and presentation/interview skills.

Who can access the Bootcamp?

The Insurance Skills Bootcamp is fully funded by the Greater London Authority (GLA) and is open to anyone aged 19+ and currently unemployed. Applicants must also reside in the Greater London area. The course will take a blended learning approach, incorporating 1-1 coaching, group training sessions (including workshops), e-learning activities, videos, self-directed study and collaborative learning with peers.

It is important to note that the Bootcamp is targeting a demographic that is largely underrepresented within the insurance sector, and Davies is keen to use this programme as an opportunity to increase diversity within the industry.

“The Bootcamp is an excellent opportunity for our insurer clients to access a pool of diverse talent to recruit into their apprenticeship programmes,” said Carolyn Blunt, Growth & Client Success Director, Davies.

“Traditionally, people tend to either fall into insurance or are guided into it by family members. A downside of this is that, as an industry, it lacks some diversity, and that’s something we at Davies are really keen to help change and modernise. I’m looking forward to seeing how the Bootcamp will help our clients attract a diverse talent pool, including candidates with protected characteristics and those facing barriers to employment,” she added.

What do learners achieve?

To develop learners’ insurance knowledge, Davies included two elements from the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) as part of the Bootcamp:

• CII Foundation Insurance Test
• CII IF1 – Principles of Insurance

Achievement of these two units will allow progression to a reduced duration Insurance Professional Level 4 apprenticeship, skipping the Level 3 Insurance Practitioner programme entirely. Not only will this give learners a unique opportunity to gain qualifications faster, but it will also provide them with the necessary skills and knowledge needed for their chosen career path.

“The CII is delighted to be able to support Davies with their Bootcamp initiative, providing learning material on how the insurance market operates and the key insurance principles. Those selected for the Bootcamp will enjoy the benefits of CII Membership and hence access to our e-mentoring platform, networking opportunities and FutureMe content with a focus on career development,” said Lisa Williams, Corporate Development Manager, CII.

To apply for a place on Davies’ Insurance Skills Bootcamp, or to find out more information, click here.