“I left school and went to college to study agriculture but I didn’t really enjoy it,” she explains. “I didn’t want to return studying full-time, as I felt I’d rather be out working.”
She continues: “I did some research online and looked at apprentice opportunities and the role at CooperBurnett really appealed to me. My sister is a law student and I’ve been really interested in what she’s been doing and asking her lots of questions.”
Jemima is doing general office duties – including scanning and organising for documents, including Wills and LPAs, to be sent out to clients - while completing related coursework in her spare time. At the end of 18 months, she will be expected to have completed 15 units of coursework and a project, as well as sitting a final exam.
“Jemima is playing an absolutely vital role here supporting our whole team – including PAs and fee earners – and we’re really enjoying supporting her to develop her career,” says Victoria Sampson, Partner and Head of Corporate and Commercial Services at CooperBurnett. “As a firm we are very committed to training – whether that’s supporting people early in their careers or offering opportunities to study to longer established team members. For example, Associate Solicitor Thomas Newlyn is currently undertaking a qualification in GDPR.”
Looking ahead, Jemima is so enjoying working in a law firm that she is considering studying to become a lawyer.
“I am finding it absolutely fascinating and am particularly drawn to family law as I can see just how much help and support solicitors in this area give their clients,” says Jemima. “I am really enjoying my time at CooperBurnett; everyone is so friendly and supportive and it’s great to see how the whole team works together.”
As she’s so busy at the moment juggling work and studying, Jemima has had to give up her horse, but she still rides when she can, as well as socialising with friends, which now include other team members at CooperBurnett.