1. Turn knowledge into practical expertise
STEP qualifications are designed by seasoned professionals who understand the complexities of estate planning, Will drafting, and trust administration. By enrolling on one or more of STEP’s qualifications, you will gain not just technical knowledge, but the confidence to apply it in real-world scenarios.
‘The STEP Diploma provided me with a comprehensive package of legal knowledge and industry insights, which is invaluable in my practice.’
Danny Clifford TEP, Ensors Chartered Accountants
‘Unlike many professional courses, the STEP Diploma applies to my day-to-day job and has enhanced my own personal knowledge and also increased my confidence. It is recognised by firms, referrers and clients.’
Clare Harris TEP, Greenwoods Legal LLP
2. Learning that mirrors your practice
Taking a STEP course will help you sharpen your judgment and decision-making in a safe, structured environment. These qualifications are designed to help you think critically and address real client challenges.
‘The STEP Advanced Certificate in Advising Vulnerable Clients is a masterclass in mental capacity; there’s no better way to put it. The framing of mental capacity, the in-depth understanding of the Mental Capacity Act, and how that relates to conversations with clients, I thought was just gold standard.’
Rhiannon Gogh, Chartered Financial Advisor and Founder of PlanIt Future
3. Global recognition and career mobility
STEP certifications are internationally recognised, opening doors across jurisdictions. Whether you're aiming to deepen your expertise or pivot into a new specialism, these qualifications signal credibility and commitment.
‘[My STEP qualification] differentiates me – it helps me to differentiate my business from other competitors as well.’
Paul Stanford TEP, Director and Founder of Stanford Legal Services
4. Expert-led, practitioner-focused
Praised by many of our past students, the quality of our tutors will make a real difference to your study journey. You’ll have the chance to learn from leading voices in the field, who bring decades of experience to the classroom. Their insights go beyond theory, offering practical strategies you can apply in your role.
‘[Caroline Bielanska, Tutor of the STEP Advanced Certificate in Advising Vulnerable Clients] was just outstanding – there was not a question that she couldn’t answer. The way that she explained very complicated aspects of trust law or disability-related expenses, for example.’
Rhiannon Gogh, Chartered Financial Advisor and Founder of PlanIt Future
‘[The tutors] are extremely knowledgeable and very well respected in their particular fields. That's the biggest thing that I was impressed about.’
Paul Stanford TEP, Director and Founder of Stanford Legal Services
5. Flexible, accessible learning
With online and face-to-face options, you can study at your own pace while balancing client work and personal commitments.
6. Future-proof your career
As legislation evolves, we will help you to stay ahead. The STEP courses are regularly updated to reflect the latest legal and regulatory developments. A range of resources is also available to help you stay abreast of industry developments and develop your technical knowledge.
7. Join a global professional community
Becoming a STEP Member will connect you to a network of over 21,000 trust and estate professionals from across 96 countries. It’s more than a credential – it’s a community of peers, mentors, and collaborators, who will help you think differently and expand your horizons.
‘From a business point of view, [the STEP Advanced Certificate in Advising Vulnerable Clients] has been very valuable because it's enabled us to have more meaningful, collaborative relationships with, particularly firms of private client lawyers and tax advisers – i.e. other STEP members.’
Robin Melley TEP, Managing Director of Matrix Capital
Final thoughts
STEP qualifications offer more than just technical knowledge – they provide a gateway to expertise, professional growth, and global recognition. Whether you're looking to deepen your understanding of your field, enhance your skillset, or future-proof your career, a STEP qualification equips you with the skills and confidence to succeed. Beyond the knowledge gained, joining STEP means becoming part of a thriving international network that will offer opportunities for collaboration and advancement throughout your career. For trust and estate practitioners, this is an invaluable investment in a successful and impactful future.