Female construction students at Bishop Burton laying the foundations for an inclusive industry – and the future of STEM

Lily Arnott, Lucy Chilton, Abigail Barr and Lexie Gibbons are all passionate about building their futures – literally – and they’re doing it in a sector that has traditionally been dominated by men.

With a love for hands-on work and a drive to succeed, all four are carving their own paths in bricklaying and construction trades. Their experiences show just how empowering and rewarding a career in construction can be, regardless of gender.

They aren’t just learning how to build – they’re embracing the core principles of STEM education, combining practical skills with engineering thinking, problem-solving and real-world application.

Lily, 16, has completed her Level 1 Bricklaying course and is progressing to Level 2. She’s already thinking ahead – with ambitions not just to work in the trade, but to inspire the next generation.

“It’s been brilliant – the best thing I’ve done,” said Lily. “I loved the teachers and the community you build.

“I want to prove that women can do this type of work – it isn’t just men.

“I’ve grown such a love for it and I’m so passionate about the subject.

“I’d now like to become a teacher in this area.”

Lucy, 18, also completed her Level 1 Bricklaying course and is moving on to Level 2. After trying A-Levels and finding they didn’t suit her learning style, she’s found her stride at Bishop Burton.

“I’ve absolutely loved it. Coming here was the best decision I’ve ever made,” Lucy said.

“I’m a practical person and this is where I’ve found what I enjoy. I used to come to family events here as a kid and knew what a great place it was.

“It’s been brilliant – I’ve grown as a person so much.”

Abigail, 17, has just finished her one-year Bricklaying course and has loved every minute of it.

“It’s a great community at the college – and in the subject area – and I’ve really enjoyed making new friends,” she said.

“There are more women working in bricklaying these days – and there are more needed.

“I enjoy practical work, so I decided to give it a go. I’ve loved it.”

Lexie, 17, completed the Entry 3 in Construction Multi-skills course and is staying on to specialise in plastering.

“I’d never done anything hands-on like this before, but the course intrigued me,” said Lexie.

“It’s traditionally a male-dominated industry, but I tend to get on well with lads, so I thought I’d fit in.

“Ultimately, I’d like to be a plasterer.”

Bishop Burton College offers a purpose-built construction workshop where students learn real-world skills from day one.

From bricklaying to plastering, students train with professional tools in an environment that reflects life on a construction site.

As well as gaining technical knowledge, students also grow in confidence, working on real projects and gaining hands-on experience through placements, competitions and site visits.

The college has excellent links with major employers including Beal Homes, British Gypsum, Hobson and Porter, Ibstock, MKM Building Supplies and Persimmon Homes.

These partnerships provide opportunities for apprenticeships, quality work placements and invaluable industry insight.

To find out more about Construction at Bishop Burton College, visit: www.bishopburton.ac.uk/college/study/subjects/construction