iCS and our clients have significantly benefited from our Community membership as we have completed all the core training modules and are enthusiastic participants in the many WhatsApp groups and webinars.
So of course, when the R&D Certification was first discussed, I was keen to be involved in the first cohort. With 8+ years focussed on supporting R&D tax claims, I believed that I had a solid foundation. But I also recognise that scheme rules are very complex and nuanced, particularly around areas such as subsidised expenditure and sub-contractors. I saw Certification as an opportunity to deepen knowledge while also helping to beta-test the first programme and establish new professional standards.
Participating in the first Certification in R&D Tax Relief
On joining the first cohort, it was clear that there were a significant number of highly experienced R&D practitioners involved, some with 20+ years supporting the scheme, including an ex-HMRC inspector.
I embarked on Certification with high expectations and was not disappointed. The flexible programme was well structured, with the right mix of webinars, required background reading (which covered some new material that I had not previously reviewed), practical exercises and quizzes, with detailed explanations to reinforce learning. Kicking off with a detailed knowledge baseline test helped identify gaps in knowledge, which enabled Richard, Karen and Kevin to provide much more focussed training. As it was an experienced cohort, I also learned a lot the group WhatsApp and more detailed Q&A in the webinars.
The Certification in R&D Tax Relief is designed to fit around the working week and suit professionals at various stages of their careers.
I noticed tangible benefits well before completing Certification. These included:
- improvements to our two-stage screening process for both existing and prospective clients,
- better Qualification documentation and,
- in particular, more accurate apportionments around prototype and software/license costing.
With the required background reading and reinforced learnings, Certification has enabled iCS to support clients through HMRC enquiries more confidently and effectively. Certification has also enabled iCS to improve our consultancy offering.
My thoughts on the Certification programme
Overall, the training was actually more rigorous than I expected. Achieving Certification demonstrates a good degree of credibility, expertise and commitment to maintaining high ethical and professional standards.
Through tailored CPD, The R&D Community continues to support a vibrant community of R&D tax professionals, who collaborate, share insights and drive collective standards. In particular I’d like to thank Richard, Karen, Kevin and the wider The R&D Community team, who have all demonstrated significant expertise in delivering this training.
I highly recommend Certification to anyone looking to advance their knowledge and confidence around scheme rules. In addition, I look forward to participating in the Advanced Certification programme in due course.
