Underwriting

New Entrant

I’m new to the insurance industry - either just out of school, a recent graduate, or transitioning from another field. I’m starting out at entry level, supporting my team with administrative tasks while learning the fundamentals of underwriting. I work under supervision and am focused on building a strong foundation in insurance principles. I’m working towards my Certificate in Insurance Product Advice (APA).

How can we help? Learn more about the APA

Supporting students achieve their best

David Flanagan - Education Development Specialist

Students benefit from a blended learning experience, with access to a wide range of high‑quality resources through a personalised Moodle learning hub. They also have the opportunity to join live tuition sessions led by industry experts.

What I do

As a new entrant to Underwriting, I need to possess a certain level of technical expertise in the following areas.

Technical Expertise

Understanding underwriting

I’m learning how underwriters assess and price risk. I understand key insurance terms, how policies are structured, and how to refer risks based on my authority limits.

Utilising data

I gather and use information from various sources to support underwriting decisions, including new applications, renewals, and policy changes.

How I work (transversal skills)

I use digital tools confidently, communicate clearly and professionally using appropriate language and tone verbally and in writing. I actively listen to understand tasks and respond effectively. I extract key information from written documents to support my work.
- Active listening
- Stakeholder communication
- Business communication
- Digital literacy
- Reading comprehension
I make straightforward decisions by following clear procedures and guidelines and focus on what needs to be done.
- Decision making
I manage my time effectively, follow instructions carefully, and complete tasks with accuracy. I ask questions to deepen my understanding, stay open to feedback, and use available resources to solve problems.
- Curiosity
- Time management
- Attention to detail
- Resourcefulness
I’m developing the interpersonal and ethical awareness needed to work effectively with others and represent the organisation professionally.
- Relationship Management
- Teamwork
- Customer service
- Ethical behaviour

Learn More. Do More. Be More.

Hear from real members about their career journeys.

Andrew Farmer, Vhi Healthcare

A career in insurance gave me the opportunity to earn an accredited qualification. In just three years, I’ve achieved so much and there’s still so much more I can accomplish in my career.

Tendai Hove, OMC Claims

I explored different career paths and discovered that insurance was the perfect fit, combining numeracy with people skills. Loss assessing also plays to my natural strengths in problem‑solving and helping others.

Next steps

Kate now works more independently, assessing risks and supporting customers. She’s expanding her technical and regulatory knowledge while working towards her Certificate in Insurance Product Advice (APA).

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Overview