Aster Group steps in to save young carpenter’s apprenticeship

Award-winning local housing association Aster Group has stepped in to ensure a young local carpenter apprentice can complete his course and achieve his career ambitions.

Aster took on 21-year-old Dario Ditoro when he was let go by his previous employer in the middle of his apprenticeship, allowing the aspiring carpenter to continue learning on the job and secure his qualification.

The housing association has also recently been recognised in the Wiltshire College & University Centre Apprenticeship Awards, winning ‘Large Business Apprentice Employer of the Year’.

Working in the planned maintenance team, Dario, who lives in Devizes, has since gained a range of experience including fitting new kitchens in customers’ homes and has even begun to master plumbing tasks.

Commenting on being given a second chance, Dario 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, I feel supported and ready to continue my career.”

Jessica Scull, Apprenticeship and early careers lead, said: “At Aster, we believe in nurturing talent and providing opportunities for growth. Dario has shown exceptional commitment and skill throughout his apprenticeship, and we are proud to have been a part of his journey. His contributions have already made a positive impact, and we are excited to see how he will continue to grow and succeed.”

Dario has high ambitions, aiming to learn another trade and advance his career within Aster.

One of the reasons Wiltshire College & University Centre recognised Aster through their awards was the Group’s “unwavering commitment to supporting apprentices and providing invaluable opportunities for those facing unexpected challenges”.

In addition to Dario, Aster recently stepped in to provide another young Wiltshire apprentice with employment and the opportunity to complete his training programme.

To find out more about apprenticeship opportunities at Aster, head to: www.aster.co.uk/careers/apprenticeships.