Celebrating Debbie’s Dip CII Achievement

This month we’re proud to celebrate with Debbie Durate on achieving her Dip CII – a fantastic milestone that reflects her dedication, perseverance and commitment to professional development.

The Diploma in Insurance (Dip CII), awarded by the Chartered Insurance Institute, is a respected qualification across the insurance industry and an important step towards Chartered status.

For Debbie, reaching this milestone represents a long and rewarding journey.

“Achieving my Dip CII feels incredibly rewarding,” she says. “It has been a long journey, especially as maintaining a healthy work–life balance has always been important to me.”

Debbie first began working towards the qualification in 2018, completing the Claims module before taking a break. When she returned to her studies in 2023 with renewed focus, she went on to pass every module at the first attempt – something she is particularly proud of.

“That’s something I’m genuinely proud of,” she says. “I’ve learned that my study style is different from many others - I like to take my time, absorb the content properly and make sure it truly sticks - so this milestone feels especially meaningful.”

The decision to pursue the Diploma was part of Debbie’s long-term professional ambitions.

“My long-term goal is to achieve Chartered status - both with the CII and the CILA - and the Diploma is a key stepping stone in that journey,” she explains. “Beyond that, the qualification offers a deeper level of technical knowledge that I can apply daily in my role. I wanted to strengthen my understanding, grow professionally and invest in a skillset that ultimately benefits the people I support in my role.”

Studying alongside a busy role required discipline and structure, something Debbie approached with consistency.

“Consistency was everything. I committed to studying for one hour every morning before work, which meant I could complete my five hours of study time each week without sacrificing my evenings or weekends. Protecting that weekend downtime was important for my wellbeing, and having a structured routine helped me stay disciplined without feeling overwhelmed.”

Like many professional qualifications, the journey was not without its challenges.

“Some of the modules - especially the compulsory ones like M05 and M92 - were genuinely tough,” Debbie says. “The content can feel dense and, at points, quite overwhelming. What helped me push through was reminding myself that everything I needed was in the study text, trusting the process and not being too hard on myself. These exams are meant to challenge you.” 

Support from colleagues and the wider business also played an important role in Debbie’s journey.

“I’m incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by highly qualified colleagues, which has been both inspiring and motivating. Seeing the level of expertise around me made me want to aim higher and keep progressing.”

Debbie also credits Intact’s support throughout her studies.

“Intact has been brilliant - from offering study leave and financial support for study materials to providing a generous tax-free reward upon completion. That support really does make a difference.”

Achieving the Dip CII also strengthens Debbie’s ability to support clients and colleagues.

“Being Dip-qualified demonstrates a commitment to professionalism and continuous learning, which ultimately benefits our clients. Loss adjusting can be challenging, and holding this qualification adds credibility and reassurance. It shows customers that you take your development seriously and that you’re dedicated to delivering the best possible service.”

Managing Director Sarah Beatty said:

We’re incredibly proud of Debbie and the dedication she has shown in achieving her Dip CII. Balancing professional responsibilities with study takes real commitment, and Debbie’s achievement is a fantastic example of what’s possible when people are supported to grow. At Intact, we’re passionate about helping our people build rewarding careers in insurance while gaining professional qualifications that open doors for the future.”

For colleagues considering professional qualifications themselves, Debbie has simple advice:

“Do it - you won’t regret it. The sense of achievement at the end is honestly surreal. It reminded me of the excitement of getting my GCSE results, passing my driving test, or receiving the keys to my first home. Completing my Diploma has truly been a highlight of my career so far.”

Debbie is now continuing her professional development by working towards the CILA Diploma module, with plans to move on to the Advanced Diplomas.

“My long-term ambition is to hold two Chartered titles: Chartered Practitioner and Chartered Loss Adjuster,” she says. “Ultimately, I hope to become the first female Chartered Loss Adjuster based in Jersey - that’s a goal that really drives me.”