Ihcene Khalfi, pictured, is a Kent Law School, University of Kent graduate and one of an increasing number of future lawyers who complete their studies and move into working full-time at Boys & Maughan Solicitors.

Ihcene, based at our Canterbury St George’s Place office, is focusing on beginning her journey up the legal career ladder and has recently been promoted from administration assistant to legal secretary.

Ihcene explains how her journey with Boys & Maughan started: “I got involved in many extra-curricular activities at Uni, including being vice president of one its societies and representing the University of Kent at national and international events. Joining in enabled me to attain 540 Employability Points, which opened the door to my attending a careers event at Boys & Maughan in June 2023.”

The Employability Points Scheme rewards students for their active engagement with co-curricular activities. For each co-curricular activity completed, students can claim Employability Points, which are cashed-in for the chance to apply for exclusive internships, work placements, training, and more.

“I read up about Boys & Maughan Solicitors, so was well-prepared and enjoyed the June networking event. Before this, I had applied for several opportunities with other firms, and they didn't respond.”

“I learned a lot at the insight afternoon and was introduced by Boys & Maughan’s marketing and business development director, Ian Priston, to one of his HR colleagues, Vanessa Gawler-James. Vanessa encouraged me to apply for a summer placement.

“Soon after, I attended an interview with Vanessa and Kerry Curson and was lucky enough to be offered the job and started work the following Monday. I then spent the summer supporting Boys & Maughan’s commercial and residential conveyancing teams in Birchington, Canterbury St George’s Place, Canterbury Castle Street, and Margate.

“My managers started me with basic work, and when they saw I was reliable and trustworthy, I progressed to emailing clients, conveyancers in other firms and estate agents, and preparing home moves.”

When she is not enjoying everything Canterbury has to offer, Paris, France, is home for Ihcene, and she is fluent in French, Spanish, and Arabic.

Ihcene naturally has one eye on the horizon and her future Boys & Maughan career.

“Being a legal secretary provides a strong foundation, and I hope to continue to prove myself and be selected for a training contract with Boys & Maughan,” says Ihcene. “Training contracts are not always possible, but by being inside the firm and applying myself to all the challenges I encounter, I believe I will improve my chances of realising my ambition.”

Liz Thomson, Boys & Maughan partner and Canterbury residential property team manager, explained:

“We always seek opportunities to promote from within wherever possible. Ihcene is an excellent example of this approach bringing dividends and I am confident that she has a bright future ahead of her.”