Award-winning apprentice urges students to consider apprenticeships ahead of results day

With GCSE and A-level results days just around the corner, housing association Aster Group is encouraging school and college leavers to consider apprenticeships as a valuable route into a rewarding career. Leading the call is former Aster apprentice Emily Screen, who recently won the Advanced Level Apprentice of the Year award at the Coastland College Student Awards 2026.

Emily joined Aster as a Plumbing and Heating apprentice and has since progressed into a role as an Improver Gas Engineer, supporting customers across Dorset with servicing, repairs and breakdowns.

Her journey demonstrates how apprenticeships can provide a practical alternative to traditional academic routes, combining paid employment with nationally recognised qualifications and hands-on experience.

Reflecting on her apprenticeship journey, Emily said: "It hasn't been the smoothest sailing four years, and there have been challenges along the way, but completing my apprenticeship and building a career I enjoy has made it all worthwhile. I'd encourage anyone receiving their results this month to look at all the options available to them. Apprenticeships give you the chance to learn, earn and gain valuable experience at the same time."

Emily's success has seen her become a role model for others considering careers in the trades. Throughout her apprenticeship she developed strong technical skills while also becoming an advocate for greater diversity within the construction industry, encouraging more people to pursue careers in traditionally underrepresented sectors.

Aster's apprenticeship programme supports people of all ages to develop new skills and build successful careers across a range of professions, from plumbing, electrical and carpentry roles through to housing, customer service and finance.

Commenting on the value of apprenticeships Jessica Scull, Apprenticeship and Early Careers Lead at Aster said: “Results day is an important milestone, but it's also a reminder that there are many pathways to success. Apprenticeships provide a valuable route into a rewarding career, combining practical experience with recognised qualifications and real development opportunities. Emily is one of many apprentices who have successfully completed their apprenticeship at Aster Group.”

Aster has recently taken on six new apprentices, one of which will be based in Bournemouth and Poole. Since 2017, Aster Group has supported 263 colleagues through apprenticeship programmes, helping develop a skilled workforce while creating opportunities for people to gain qualifications and experience.

For those looking to explore Apprenticeship opportunities at Aster please head to Early Careers to register your interest and be the first to hear once any new apprenticeship opportunities become available.