From dropping out from school at 13 to working as a dental nurse

Darcey Lawrence has had a remarkable journey since dropping out from formal education in her second year of high school. Now she is a dental nurse apprentice.

Darcey was struggling with anxiety as a student at Preston Lodge High School.

“I was down in a dump and was struggling to make friends,” she said.

At one point, it all just became too much for her.

“I ended up dropping out halfway through my second year and I never came back,” said Darcey, now 21.

She started receiving support from a social worker but they were unable to find any activities Darcey would successfully engage with. A few years passed and she was still disengaged from all services.

“When I was 15-16, my social worker introduced me to Bridges Project as it was the only place she thought I might be able to engage with,” said Darcey.

And she was right. Her introduction to Bridges Project would mark the start of an incredible turnaround for Darcey.

She soon became involved with various groups the charity was offering.

“The groups really helped. I met other young people with similar backgrounds and challenges. Over time, it helped build my confidence,” said Darcey.

After building up her confidence in Bridges Project’s groups and completing nearly every PlayBack Learning Academy qualification the charity delivers, it was time for Darcey to take on a challenge. She was referred to the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) programme, a week-long course in the north of Scotland.

“It really pushed you out of your comfort zone as you had to be with other girls you didn’t know and do activities such as canoeing,” said Darcey.

The qualifications and life skills the young woman gained through Bridges Project and RYLA eventually paved an alternative educational route for Darcey and she was able to apply to college. She was accepted onto a Childcare course but dropped out when the Covid-19 pandemic hit. A few jobs followed before she decided to go back to college to do dental nursing.

“I wanted a change and have always liked teeth and looking after my own teeth. I find it very fascinating,” said Darcey about her change of career path.

Halfway through her degree, the 21-year-old decided it was even better to learn on the job. She therefore applied for an NHS apprenticeship which she could combine with her last year of college. It was yet another success for Darcey, who secured a job with Lauriston Dental Hospital.  

The job has also been a success so far.

“I really enjoy dental nursing and have found what I want to do now,” said Darcey, who has been living in Musselburgh for the past seven years.

When reflecting back on her remarkable journey, the former Bridges Project client is filled with pride – not only because of her career progression but also because of her incredible development on a personal level.

“I am really proud of myself. Before I got support from Bridges Project, I could not even talk to people on the phone. Now I am confident and sociable and have a good group of friends. It is amazing how I have come on,” said the 21-year-old.

She does not shy away from Bridges Project’s important role in her success.

“Bridges Project helped me a lot. I wouldn’t be where I am without. It is fair to say I have come far in life because of Bridges Project,” said Darcey.

Her message to other young people who are struggling is clear:

“My story shows that if you work hard and get support from the right people, you can get far.”