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An interview with Scott Mowberry, Agored Cymru's Project Manager, on our newest Banking & Finance qualifications launching in September 2025.

Q1: Can you give some background to the new Agored Cymru Banking & Finance qualifications? 

These qualifications have been developed as part of the transition from the London Institute of Banking & Finance (LIBF) to Agored Cymru. Leading this project has been a real privilege for me, because it’s not just about moving qualifications from one awarding body to another, it’s about protecting and strengthening opportunities for young people to develop vital financial skills that will benefit them for life.  

Building on LIBF’s strong legacy, we’ve updated the structure to align with today’s education and regulatory landscape. The suite maintains continuity for centres while introducing clearer progression routes, from LiFE, which covers everyday money skills, through to advanced qualifications supporting higher education, apprenticeships, and financial careers.  

What excites me most is that these qualifications go beyond exams, they give learners confidence and practical know-how to make real-life financial choices. 

"I’ve seen first-hand the difference financial education makes, so being part of this development feels truly rewarding." 

Q2: Why are these qualifications important now, and what gap are they aiming to fill? 

I honestly don’t think there’s ever been a more important time for financial education. Young people today are navigating a world where they’re expected to make complex financial decisions earlier than ever, from online banking and digital payments to dealing with the rising cost of living, credit, and savings.  

"Yet the reality is that financial education in schools and colleges is still inconsistent, and too many leave education without the confidence to manage these challenges. That’s the gap we want to fill."  

These qualifications provide structured, recognised pathways that build financial capability step by step.  

What I like most is how practical and relevant the content is, learners see its application straight away. From an employment perspective, it’s equally valuable, because employers tell us they want young people who can problem-solve and make sound decisions. For me, it’s about creating confident, financially capable learners for life. 

Q3: How will these qualifications benefit learners in Wales and England? 

I see the benefit of these qualifications as twofold: practical life skills and progression opportunities. On a personal level, learners gain essential knowledge that helps them day-to-day, budgeting, using financial products, or even planning for their future careers.  

In Wales, they’re particularly powerful because they align with the Curriculum for Wales, which emphasises real-life application. In England, they complement existing study programmes and provide recognised progression for learners interested in business, finance, or related sectors. Importantly, they don’t just open doors to further study or apprenticeships in financial services, they also develop transferable skills like problem-solving, communication, and analytical thinking, which are valued everywhere.  

"What I find most rewarding is the confidence learners gain. They leave feeling more in control of their finances and their futures, and that sense of empowerment can make all the difference in opening opportunities they might not have considered otherwise." 

Q4: How do the qualifications connect to real-world financial skills or banking roles? 

What makes me proud of this suite is how closely it