A HOUSING association has won three awards for its commitment to apprentices.

Aster Group has been presented with an Employer Community Award in recognition of its volunteering activities, including the makeover of the Weymouth Park Community Centre.

The award was given at a ceremony held by Exeter College as judges were impressed by the team of Aster apprentices who volunteered their time during the National Apprenticeship Week 2020 to paint and decorate the community centre hall, with is used for activities including luncheon clubs, toddler groups and table-tennis.

Shirley James, secretary of Park Community Centre, said: "It's great news that the Aster apprentice volunteers won an award for their work in the community.

"Our huge hall must have looked impossible to complete in a week, however, we looked in each day and could see the volunteers not only working hard, but being positive and picking up skills quickly.

"The hall has been modernised and looks amazing. We have had very positive remarks from all who attended. We are proud of our hall and of the volunteers. A huge thank you."

Alongside the Employer Community Award, apprentice carpenter Will Green won the Inspiring Journey Award after he switched from a career in finance to pursue his dream of becoming a carpenter.

He said: "I wanted to change my career to a field that was going to challenge me in new ways, while being able to learn progressive skills from professionals in a supportive and diverse environment."

Contracts supervisor Richard Slayer was presented with the Unsung Hero Award in recognition of his commitment and dedication to mentoring apprentices across the Aster Group.

Richard said: "Apprentices are the life blood and the future of our business. Good mentors support and encourage life and learning skills."

Commenting on Aster’s success at the awards, Jane Pound, Aster Group people director employee relations, said: "This is fantastic recognition of the amazing efforts of our apprentices, their colleagues and our partners in delivering positive outcomes to our local communities."

Alec Pegram, maintenance director at Aster, added: "Being able to give back to our community is a real privilege so we are delighted to celebrate the amazing efforts of our apprentices, their colleagues and our partners in delivering positive outcomes to our local communities with this award from Exeter College."

For more information on apprenticeship opportunities at Aster, visit www.aster.co.uk/careers/apprenticeships