Introduction
Trustees and the law
As the Pensions Regulator (TPR) states, ‘committed, conscientious trustees play an essential part in the proper running of pension schemes’. Trustees have wide-ranging powers and discretions under the Pensions Act 2004. The law requires that trustees have the knowledge and understanding to perform their role effectively. This includes understanding the law relating to pensions and trusts, the funding of pension schemes and the investment of scheme assets.
Supplementing the toolkit
TPR has developed a web-based trustee toolkit that has been designed to help trustees comply with the minimum requirements. For some, this e-learning programme may be sufficient.
Others, however, are likely to want to supplement e-learning with further training, either on specific issues or relating to the particular circumstances of their scheme, and have the opportunity to share experiences with others, and learn from trustees. As legislation and good practice are in constant flux, the trustee body – or subgroups of it – should seek regular briefings and refresher courses.
Scheme oversight
Many companies now outsource their pension provision either via a Contract-based arrangement with an insurance company, or through a Master Trust, and have set up Governance Committees to ensure that their pension provider performs well, and remains appropriate for their employees. Training can help members of a committee understand how they can add value and ensure they get the best out of their provider.
How can we help?
WTW has extensive experience of providing advice to trustees and governance committees of pension schemes of all sizes. Our long-running and well received Introductory Defined Benefit (DB) Trustee Training courses are updated and refreshed every year. Our latest courses are designed to support governance committees’ and trustees’ needs, complementing TPR’s current e-learning programme.
Further information
In addition to these courses, we run a range of seminars for those involved in the management of pension schemes. For further information, please contact your WTW consultant, or trustee.training@wtwco.com
Bespoke courses
As an alternative to the in-house courses, your WTW consultant can work with you to identify the training needs of the trustee body or governance committee, as a whole, groups, or individually. We can then develop and deliver a course or training programme designed to meet these specific needs. Courses can be at a location convenient for the trustees, including your offices or Willis Towers Watson’s offices. Training can also be included as a regular slot during normal trustee meetings.
Just a few of the topics our experts can help your board with are listed below. Reach out to your WTW consultant to discuss in more depth.
Training for new trustees
Introductory DB Trustee Training
DC Oversight Training
Investment Trustee Training
Governance
Trustee Effectiveness
Covenant
Inclusion and Diversity in Pensions
Climate fundamentals
Cyber Risk
Oversight
Valuations
Member Options
Mortality
AI
Journey planning/endgames
What will I learn?
These courses will be designed and delivered to meet your specific needs, and tailored to your scheme and circumstances. By drawing on our library of training materials, we are able to provide tailored courses quickly and within a realistic budget.
The full range of topics are covered, including DB scheme funding, investment, scheme operation, settlement and DC scheme matters.
Who should attend?
These bespoke courses can be designed and delivered to suit any level of experience or knowledge.
What do I do now?
For further information, or to discuss your training needs in more detail, please contact your WTW consultant or trustee.training@wtwco.com
Details
When and Where
22 April 2027 (Virtual)
09:00-16:00 GMT
MS Teams
14 October 2027 (In-person)
09:00-16:00 GMT
WTW (Willis Towers Watson)
51 Lime Street London, EC3M 7DQ United Kingdom
Cost
£400 + VAT
Contact