Hampshire duo start apprentice programme with local housing association

Two ambitious young people from Hampshire aspiring to become trades professionals have been accepted on to a local housing associations’ popular apprentice programme.

Bailey Baulf, (18) from Andover, is undertaking an apprenticeship in gas and plumbing, while Elliott Walshaw (17) from Ludgershall, is working towards becoming a qualified electrician.

For Elliott, it was working with his dad that inspired him to apply for the apprenticeship. He said: “I worked with my dad and some of his electrician colleagues during the summer, and it stood out to me as a really interesting trade, so I decided I would try and get on to an apprenticeship at the end of my college year. I’m really looking forward to the next four years with Aster.”

Bailey is also looking forward to making the change: “The programme looks so great and and it seemed like a great way to continue my career. I am looking forward to getting qualified and helping out the team on my apprenticeship journey.”

The housing association has been running its apprenticeship scheme since 2010. Aimed at attracting new talent into the business and developing a motivated, skilled, and qualified workforce, the Group is currently supporting 36 apprentices, with some embarking on a new qualification alongside their full-time role with Aster.

Gary Prince, operations director (Hampshire and Wiltshire) at Aster, said: “Our programme means apprentices have the opportunity to work with and learn from experienced, skilled trades people and earn a wage while gaining their qualification.

“It’s great to see those who have completed the programme go on to make a real difference to our customers and their homes.”

For more information on apprentice opportunities at Aster, please visit our careers page: https://www.aster.co.uk/careers/apprenticeships.