Graduating with the National Certificate
in Funeral Directing, by Jacquii Ralph

On Wednesday 23rd September 2009 I graduated with the National Certificate in Funeral Directing. 16 of my colleagues and I celebrated together at a graduate dinner and ceremony held at the James Cook Hotel in Wellington. Professor Mike Marfell-Jones, Chair of the Funeral Services Training Trust, presented us with our certificates.

I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to attain the National Certificate in Funeral Directing. The commitment required to complete this certificate was demanding, both mentally and emotionally, as I had not been in an educational environment for many years. However, during the course I came to understand the significance of this work. My appreciation for the long standing and respected history of Funeral Directing has been enhanced and I feel better equipped to help those who require my services. The added
bonus of attending the course was being able to connect with colleagues from all around
New Zealand.

I realise that this profession is my vocation and I am grateful to have found this out while I am still able to contribute to the industry. I appreciate the fact that every family I deal with shares something of themselves with me, that they trust me with the care of their loved one and that they allow me to be a part of something so intimate and special.

Jacqui Ralph