DVSA Apprentice Narliesha - Keep breaking down the barriers

Narliesha Drysdale, Apprentice in HR, DVSA Bristol

I work in the Occupational Health team. I joined DVSA as an apprentice in HR as I wanted to add to my experiences and qualifications.

I studied health and beauty at college - at the time I believed that this was the convenient thing to do. Who would have thought I could do anything else other than perform facials, waxing and manicures! Soon I grew tired of scrubbing feet and went into a fashion retail job which I enjoyed but could not imagine it as a long term career option.

Although I’ve always been open to learning, I didn’t believe that a university education was for me. So much has changed over the years and I believe that different routes, like apprenticeships, can still lead you to being just as successful.

A friend of mine had completed an apprenticeship with another Civil Service department and recommended it. ‘Opportunity’ is the main reason I joined the Civil Service; the apprenticeship route gave me the opportunity to study as well as work full time. It’s hard to balance study with a full time role but my manager supports me a lot, which makes it much easier.

Another reason was for the different benefits such as paid maternity leave, and these days even shared parental leave, if I ever need it. I find it hard to believe that many women years ago had to give up their jobs after becoming pregnant.

Whilst being in this role I’ve had the opportunity to attend staff networking events, explore different areas of DVSA and as a female working here have the support of the Women’s Integrated Network (WIN) group. In the future, I know that I’ll have even more opportunities, whether it be having a mentor or career progression.

My mum has been an inspiration, having moved from Jamaica at the age of 25, completing a cooking qualification and becoming a professional chef. As a young woman it is great to see female directors such as Helen Milne [DVSA Director of Finance and Corporate Services], as it reminds you how far women have made it and encourages you to keep breaking down the barriers.

I would recommend doing an apprenticeship to anyone as it gives you the chance to add to your qualifications as well as experience the role.

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