The support received by one legal secretary at Ogier has prompted other members of staff to undertake professional secretarial qualifications.

Jackie Guille achieved a highly commended certificate in her Legal Secretaries Diploma, which she completed via distance learning in just six months.

On her recommendation and example seven of her colleagues are now being supported by Ogier to take the Institute of Legal Secretaries and PAs’ course.

After a career in the local Police force Miss Guille decided that she wanted a career change. Not having any previous secretarial experience in the legal field she knew she had to prove herself in the competitive job market so chose to take the qualification route.

Her determination and dedication to the new direction in her career path were recognised by Ogier and she was recruited as legal secretary in the corporate law team in October 2005.

‘I have been working for Ogier for six months now and I can quite honestly say I enjoy coming to work,’ she said.

‘The level of support the firm has given me throughout my studies has been a real help and has consequently encouraged seven of my colleagues to undertake the diploma. I gained so much from the qualification that I am now, with the backing of Ogier, studying toward the Institute’s company and corporate law diploma which will help me even further in my job.’

Miss Guille’s exam success, which is equivalent to a level three GNVQ, has entitled her to associate membership of the Institute of Legal Secretaries and PAs and the right to use “AILS” after her name.

Partner and head of Ogier in Guernsey, Advocate William Simpson, said: ‘The benefits Jackie was receiving from her diploma were evident as soon as she joined us and I am not surprised she achieved a “highly commended” for all the hard work she put in. Ogier recognises the value of training its staff. As a firm we actively encourage our people to further their development through relevant professional qualifications and support them as much as we can. I wish all the legal secretaries good luck in their diploma.’

The Legal Secretaries Diploma is exam and assignment-based and consists of five units covering the English legal system, land law, conveyancing, civil litigation and the drafting of wills.