Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy

CIPFA and ICAEW launch unique international financial reporting qualification

04-03-2010

The Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA) and the ICAEW have jointly developed a new qualification for finance professionals working in the public sector that covers both International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and their public sector equivalents, International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS).

The Certificate in International Public Sector Financial Reporting (Cert IPSFR) is a unique e-learning programme and is the first such qualification to meet the specific and growing needs of the public sector. Central government and NHS Trusts are adopting IFRS for their 2009/10 accounts, while the first local authority IFRS based accounts are to be produced for 2010/11.

The new certificate is relevant well beyond the UK public sector. The increasing global adoption of IPSAS, as well as IFRS, makes the qualification adaptable to international variations in emerging markets which are looking to improve public sector financial reporting and management.

It comprises of 70 study hours with online assessment. The certificate comprehensively covers all international standards, including an explanation on the context of IFRS and IPSAS and details of financial statement presentation, asset and liability reporting and entity consolidation.

The certificate will be launched at the Third CIPFA/ICAEW public sector conference – IFRS and beyond on 5 March 2010 at Chartered Accountants’ Hall, London and on 12 March at the Crown Plaza, Leeds. It will be available for purchase after the launch at www.cipfa.org.uk/certipsfr or www.icaew.com/certipsfr

CIPFA Chief Executive Steve Freer said:
‘Finance staff throughout the public sector faced with the special demands of the new international financial reporting standards will benefit from this unique and tailored qualification which is the latest example of the close working relationship between CIPFA and the ICAEW’

Michael Izza, ICAEW Chief Executive, said:
“The adoption of IFRS across national and local government is a key element in reforming the cultures, structures and processes that underpin public spending. This qualification will provide a benchmark for finance professionals, not just in the UK but around the world as adoption of IFRS is extended across the public sector.”

ENDS

Contact details:

Guy Roberts Howard Rhoades
CIPFA Press Office ICAEW Press Office
020 7543 5712 020 7920 8616
guy.roberts@cipfa.org.uk howard.rhoades@icaew.com

Notes to Editors:

1. CIPFA and the ICAEW signed a memorandum of understanding in 2007 setting out a framework for a strategic partnership between the two bodies. The strategic partnership has seen the institutes work together on a series of joint initiatives and projects.

About CIPFA

CIPFA, the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy, is the professional body for people in public finance. Our 14,000 members work throughout the public services, in national audit agencies, in major accountancy firms, and in other bodies where public money needs to be effectively and efficiently managed. As the world’s only professional accountancy body to specialise in public services, CIPFA’s portfolio of qualifications are the foundation for a career in public finance. They include the benchmark professional qualification for public sector accountants as well as a postgraduate diploma for people already working in leadership positions.

They are taught by our in-house CIPFA Education and Training Centre as well as other places of learning around the world. We also champion high performance in public services, translating our experience and insight into clear advice and practical services. They include information and guidance, courses and conferences, property and asset management solutions, consultancy and interim people for a range of public sector clients.

Globally, CIPFA shows the way in public finance by standing up for sound public financial management and good governance. We work with donors, partner governments, accountancy bodies and the public sector around the world to advance public finance and support better public services.

About ICAEW

As a world leading professional accountancy body, the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales (ICAEW) provides leadership and practical support to over 134,000 members in more than 165 countries, working with Government, regulators and industry in order to ensure the highest standards are maintained.

Our members provide financial knowledge and guidance based on the highest technical and ethical standards. They are trained to challenge people and organisations to think and act differently, to provide clarity and rigour, and so help create and sustain prosperity. The ICAEW ensures these skills are constantly developed, recognised and valued.

Because of us, people can do business with confidence.