Name: Santina Bunting   Employer: Arup   Apprenticeship: Civil Engineering   Training Provider: Warwick University 

Santina Bunting knew all about apprenticeships from the age of 11, “when they weren’t that popular.” She explained: “My mum was a big advocate of them, and she really opened my eyes. Then my brother did a civil engineering apprenticeship and I realised it would be even better to get started after Year 11; after my GCSE exams were cancelled. I was the only one out of 150 students in her all-girls grammar school year to opt for it.” The rest of Santina’s classmates assumed the only way forward was via A Levels and then university.

Despite being the only one in her class doing things differently, Santina didn’t have any doubts.

“There are so many advantages to doing an apprenticeship,” she said. “I’ve already worked on four major highway projects, for example. I am applying skills at the same time as learning them. I’ve enjoyed so many things – everyone takes the time to explain things and I really feel part of the team. I can now see my responsibilities being increased as I develop my skills and that validates me.”

Santina has since been invited back to her school to give talks to other students about doing an apprenticeship in engineering. She said: “They remember me and can relate to it more as a result. Now lots are saying they are considering it.” She is pleased to see an increase in female representation in the industry. “Gender doesn’t hinder you at all. The industry is changing and its more about what you can add and contribute as an individual.”

Santina won Highly Commended in the Engineering category of the 2024 Multicultural Apprenticeship awards.