A LAW student has been named Graduate of the Year.

Kathryn Cole of Bournemouth received the title from the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEx).

Kathryn, 49, works as a private client and probate manager at Gales Solicitors in Bournemouth and received the award for achieving the highest average mark, more than 85 per cent, in her final law exams.

She studied CILEx’s vocational course through distance learning with CILEx Law School whilst working full time and has now passed all of the exams to become a fully qualified Chartered Legal Executive lawyer.

She said: “My studies with CILEx have been a way for me to consolidate all that I have learned during my career in law so far. The support I have received from my family, friends and colleagues has been so important to me.”

Kathryn’s legal career started by chance during a summer break from college when she worked as a secretary in a law firm. She soon became a paralegal and fee earner. CILEx has provided Kathryn with a nationally recognised, professional qualification without the expense of a career break or university degree.

The Graduate of the Year award was sponsored by Hoopers.