Reflections on my apprenticeship: Darcey Warren

Posted at 13:20 on 14th February 2025 in Announcements

This week is National Apprenticeship Week, below is a blog from our Communications and Youth Engagement Assistant Apprentice, Darcey Warren.

How I became an apprentice:

After realising that university wasn’t the right path for me, I pursued an apprenticeship in communications and public relations. At 17, I originally applied to university to study psychology, but I didn’t find sixth form the easiest. There is a lot of pressure to follow the traditional path of university, which can be overwhelming. After researching what apprenticeships are like, I realised they truly offer the best of both worlds, providing a balance between work and study, giving me the chance to build real experiences while also continuing my education in a way that suited me.

I began my search for apprenticeships through the Government website, focusing on finding an opportunity which aligned with my passion for youth voice. I’ve always been interested in creating platforms where young people can express their opinions, a passion I found while chairing my local youth council in Keynsham. The chance to bring this to the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) has been an incredible experience, allowing me to continue advocating for youth perspectives in a meaningful way.

The process went from applying, to an interview online with PRCA apprenticeships, and then a face-to-face apprenticeship with the OPCC communications team.

What have I learnt?

I work five days a week and dedicate one of these days to study towards a Level 4 diploma in public relations and communications. This balance allows me to continuously develop new skills that are shaping my future career.

Since starting my role, I have learned about myself and my abilities. I’ve gained confidence in speaking up and sharing my ideas. As well as gaining important skills such as writing, networking, and communication skills. The opportunities I’ve had, the people I collaborate with, and the experiences I’ve had have all contributed to my professional and personal growth. My time at the OPCC has been especially rewarding, equipping me with the tools and confidence to make contributions.

Some highlights from the past 18 months include:

I organised a youth focus group for Clare Moody’s Police and Crime Plan consultation, providing young people with a platform to share their thoughts. Ensuring their voices were heard was crucial in shaping a plan that reflects the needs and concerns of the entire community, including younger generations.
I have had the opportunity to attend conferences on youth safety, where I took key insights and wrote summaries to share, using my learnt social media skills to raise awareness.
Participating in training sessions that have helped me grow in my field, taking the knowledge I gained and applying it directly to my role at the OPCC.

I would recommend apprenticeships to anyone, whether you’re a college leaver or looking for a new career path. There are so many options available. I finish my apprenticeship this year, and while I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished, I’m even more excited for what’s yet to come.

To start your research I would recommend the Government Skills for Careers website.