Agored Cymru, a prominent Welsh awarding body, has expanded its portfolio by introducing eight new accounting and financial skills qualifications, marking a significant step in its growth strategy. The qualifications have been acquired from the London Institute of Banking and Finance (LIBF), following LIBF’s decision to exit the schools and colleges market.
The new courses, set to be available from September 2025, will form a key part of Agored Cymru’s vocational programme offerings. This expansion will see the body strengthen its presence across Wales, the rest of the UK, and internationally, offering learners critical skills needed for careers in finance, as well as essential personal finance management knowledge.
The two organisations share a common goal of making education accessible to a broad range of learners, regardless of their background. Their collaboration reflects a shared vision of providing inclusive, high-quality learning opportunities both domestically and globally.
Agored Cymru’s CEO, Darren Howells, emphasised the significance of the new qualifications as part of the organisation’s broader development plan. “These eight new finance qualifications are a crucial component of our growth strategy, enabling us to equip learners with vital skills for the financial sector and helping them gain personal finance management capabilities. Our focus is on ensuring that these qualifications not only prepare individuals for professional careers but also enhance their everyday financial literacy.”
Agored Cymru has a strong track record in delivering educational programmes, working with schools, colleges, and training providers throughout Wales and beyond. The addition of these qualifications will enable the organisation to extend its reach to a wider audience of learners. Mr Howells added: “We are delighted to have been selected by the London Institute of Banking and Finance to continue their legacy of offering high-quality finance qualifications. This opportunity will allow us to expand our influence not only in Wales but across the UK and internationally.”
The new qualifications will be made available in both English and Welsh, marking the first time such courses have been offered bilingually. Agored Cymru’s commitment to supporting learners in Wales by providing educational materials in both languages is seen as an important step in widening access to quality education.
The phased rollout of these finance qualifications will be completed by September 2025, ensuring a smooth transition for those previously involved in LIBF courses. The new suite of courses will also complement the 400+ other qualifications Agored Cymru currently awards across a wide range of subjects, from healthcare to business management.
Claire Harding, Director of Operations at the LIBF, praised the partnership with Agored Cymru. “We are pleased to have reached an agreement with Agored Cymru that will allow them to continue the legacy of LIBF’s finance qualifications. Agored Cymru has a wealth of experience in education and assessment, and we are working closely with them to ensure the successful delivery of these qualifications from 2025.”
The partnership between Agored Cymru and LIBF highlights the growing demand for financial education and the importance of equipping learners with skills that are essential in today’s world. Through this collaboration, Agored Cymru aims to provide a pathway for students and professionals to enhance their understanding of finance, both in Wales and on a global stage.