Apprenticeship leads to successful career

Young adults across the South are being given the opportunity to develop a career in the housing industry with developer and landlord, Aster Group.

One of the business’ apprentices, Claire Seymour, 32, completed a two-year housing apprenticeship with the Dorset based company in 2014. Since then, she has progressed in several roles in the business including neighbourhood officer, senior neighbourhood officer and, most recently, her current role as anti-social behaviour manager.

During the two year programme, Claire was given the opportunity to learn from the housing team and spent time working with neighbourhood officers, agreeing customer lettings, and helping with customer accounts.

Of her experience, Claire said: “I always wanted to work with people and for a service that made a difference. I vividly remember reading the job specification for this apprenticeship and I knew instantly that the role was suited to my skills and passions.

“Growing up I lived in social housing and so, when it came to choosing a career I wanted to make a difference. I knew the value of having a safe, secure, affordable home and how crucial that is as a foundation for good health, education achievement and security.

 “This apprenticeship was ideal as it wasn’t just tailored for school or college leavers, it was open to all and included those like me who wanted a career change.”

Karin Gibbs-Warne, from Aster said: “Our apprenticeship scheme is a fantastic opportunity for people of all ages and backgrounds to learn new skills and to get some real hands-on experience. Claire is a perfect example of someone who has made the most of her apprenticeship and has ended up with a great lifelong career.”

Aster, which employs 369 people in Dorset provided apprenticeships last year in customer services, business administration as well as skilled trades such as electrical, plumbing and surveying.

National Apprenticeship Week runs from 5-9 March. If you’re interested in our apprenticeship opportunities, to find out more click here