The University of Chester and Quill Pinpoint see first students pass

It was a proud day for Quill Pinpoint when the first twelve of its ‘home grown’ legal cashiers stepped up to receive their Professional Certificate in Legal Accounts Management at an awards ceremony at the University of Chester.

Their journey started in 2007 when the company experienced difficulty in recruiting enough high calibre legal cashiers to meet the growing demand for the Quill Pinpoint outsourcing service.  A decision was taken to recruit promising candidates for a rigorous in-house training programme that would tap into the wealth of knowledge and experience within the company, producing legal cashiers who would meet the exacting standards and also lead to a recognised qualification that would offer them real career progression.

One of the main advantages of in-house training has been the opportunity for trainees to be mentored by existing experienced Quill Pinpoint legal cashiers.  This has ensured that they are fully versed in the technical aspects of the Pinpoint Interactive system as well as the importance of ensuring that no breaches of regulations occur by following the stringent procedures that are laid

One of the company’s key objectives was for the training to provide a recognised qualification and to this end a number of avenues were explored.  As the University of Chester already had a track record of working with employer-led training programmes, they were selected to deliver and support the academic aspects of the training.  The qualification awards 60 UCAS points on completion.

According to HR director Maria Hadfield, the programme has exceeded every aspect of the company’s expectations.  “The exercise has improved motivation, self-development and staff retention and proven to be an excellent return on our investment,” she comments.

Unexpectedly, the course proved to be engaging even to some of Quill Pinpoint’s most experienced cashiers and last year the opportunity to participate was extended to all legal staff.  “Continuing professional development is valuable at every level and, of course, the chance to achieve a university-accredited qualification is the icing on the cake,” adds Maria.

Twelve more staff will commence training at the start of the next academic year.

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