Aster Group wins Wiltshire College & University Centre Apprenticeship Award

Award-winning local housing association Aster Group, has been recognised for its outstanding commitment to apprentices in the recent Wiltshire College & University Centre Apprenticeship Awards. With nearly 8,000 homes and 500 employees in the county, Aster scooped up the award for ‘Large Business Apprentice Employer of the Year.’

The award highlights the successful partnership between Aster and Wiltshire College & University Centre, which has been instrumental in creating a robust apprenticeship offering. The apprentice programme not only equips students with valuable skills and experience but also contributes significantly to the local community by providing training and employment opportunities.

Commenting on why it chose Aster as its ‘Large Business Apprentice Employer of the Year’, Martin Reeves, Director of Business Development at Wiltshire College & University Centre, said: “Aster has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to supporting apprentices, providing invaluable opportunities for those facing unexpected challenges. When two apprentices were left without employers, Aster stepped in to offer them both employment and a chance to complete its training programmes.

“Aster’s dedication to nurturing talent extends beyond employment. The housing association has created a safe, welcoming and well-equipped environment where apprentices can thrive. By offering the necessary time, resources and mentorship they have empowered learners to succeed. Aster’s outstanding support and commitment to developing future talent makes them a valued partner.”

Dario Ditoro, one of the apprentices Aster took on as he was unable to complete his Carpentry and Joinery apprenticeship with his previous employer, said: “Aster’s support has saved me from losing my qualification as I was halfway through completing it when my previous employment came to an end. I am extremely grateful for Aster taking me on and couldn’t thank them enough. From the equipment supplied to me, to being able to work within a team where I have built my confidence up.”

Since the Apprenticeship Levy’s introduction in 2017, Aster has already supported over 300 people, either by employing new apprentices into the business or upskilling its current team via the Levy funding.

Jessica Scull, Aster Group’s Apprenticeship and Early Careers Lead, said: “Our apprenticeship programme plays a vital role in maintaining the pipeline of skilled people the Group needs coming up through the business. So, to be recognised by Wiltshire College & University Centre as the ‘Large Business Apprentice Employer of the Year’ is a huge endorsement of our programme.

“Collaborating with Wiltshire College & University Centre has been a truly enriching experience. We are grateful to the assessors and everyone working behind the scenes and appreciate their unwavering support and encouragement throughout our apprentices’ journeys.”

As Aster Group celebrates this remarkable achievement, it remains committed to expanding its early careers offering and continuing to provide opportunities for young people.

You can find out more about Aster’s apprenticeship programme at https://www.aster.co.uk/careers/apprenticeships.