Aster wins apprenticeship award for local community work in Andover

Local housing association Aster Group has been presented with an Employer Community Award in recognition of its volunteering activities, including the makeover of a community allotment used by local organisations and charities in Andover.

The award was given by Exeter College, who were impressed by the team of six Aster apprentices who volunteered their time during National Apprenticeship Week 2020 (3-9 February 2020), to repair the allotment’s greenhouse, flower beds, growing polly tunnel and shed to get it ready for the growing season ahead. The allotment which is run by a group known as Allotment Adventurers, grows vegetables, fruit, herbs and wildflowers and is used to support mental wellbeing, mindfulness and creativity.

Alongside the Employer Community Award, Aster also received the Inspiring Journey Award and the Unsung Hero Award during Exeter College’s first ever Standards and Sparkles ceremony.

The award comes as the country celebrates Volunteers’ Week which recognises the invaluable contribution volunteers make to local communities.

Alec Pegram, maintenance director at Aster, comments: “Volunteers’ Week is a timely reminder of the fantastic difference volunteering can make. 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."

To find out more about apprenticeship opportunities at Aster please visit https://www.aster.co.uk/careers/apprenticeships and for further information on Aster Group visit www.aster.co.uk.