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Lillyanne Pidgeon and Jade Gardener have become the first people to complete a Claims Handling apprenticeship journey.
Kennedys was the first firm in the UK to offer this opportunity, which begins with a specialised 15-month programme, through which apprentices earn the Certificate in Insurance (Cert CII) qualification. After that, apprentices can pursue the Insurance Professional Level 4 Apprenticeship, earning the esteemed Diploma in Insurance (Dip CII) qualification.
We caught up with Jade and Lillyanne as the first qualifiers to begin the move from apprentices to qualified professionals.
For more insight into what a typical day in the life looks like working at Kennedys, visit our life at Kennedys page.
Q&A
What does it mean to be a Claims Handling Apprentice at Kennedys?
Jade: The opportunity to be a trailblazer in the wider market. It has also given me the opportunity to start gaining knowledge of the insurance market and how it works, whilst also having a caseload that shows me how this works in practice.
Being able to develop relationships within the wider market and putting my name out there has been enjoyable.
Was there a particular project or task that you really enjoyed?
Lillyanne: The coursework! The claims handling module was this was my favourite as it was the most applicable to our day-to-day roles.
What aspects of working at Kennedys have you enjoyed the most?
Jade: Being able to develop relationships within the wider market and putting my name out there has been enjoyable.
What areas within the insurance industry are you most interested in exploring further?
Lillyanne: I have recently started handling cyber claims which is very interesting. This role is highly rewarding and ever-changing due to the nature of the cyber world.
Jade: I am keen to continue dealing with the main FI and D&O claims. Being able to apply and demonstrate my knowledge as Slip Lead, once I have built up the wealth of experience necessary, on complex claims would be great.
What motivated you to choose Kennedys?
Lillyanne: Kennedys have core values which underline everything that we do. Our Vision is also centered around our clients. At Kennedys, I knew that my role within the team would be valued, and I wouldn’t just be a ‘number’; each colleague matters.
The knowledge and understanding that I have gained throughout this experience has been invaluable.
Who has been the biggest influence or inspiration in your life, and why?
Lillyanne: Definitely my mum, she has always pushed me to believe in myself and encouraged me to apply for the role. Working for a law firm was always my dream but at the time, I didn’t think I was good enough. Mum has celebrated all my successes along the journey with me. She is such a hard worker and successful business owner.
Jade: Similar to Lilly, both of my parents. The goal is always to make them proud of the work that I do and the person that I am.
United Kingdom