STRONG employer partnerships are central to Wiltshire College & University Centre’s 150 in 100 campaign – our commitment to creating 150 new apprenticeship opportunities in 100 days.
Jess Scull, Early Careers and Apprenticeship Lead at Aster Group, recently visited the College’s Trowbridge campus to tour its construction and trade workshops, including Plumbing and Heating, Carpentry and Electrical. The visit highlighted the importance of strong employer partnerships in developing the skilled workforce the region needs.
Aster Group currently employs apprentices who are training with Wiltshire College & University Centre across key construction trades. The housing association was also named Large Business Apprentice Employer of the Year at the College’s 2025 awards. During her visit, discussions focused on ensuring apprenticeship programmes continue to reflect real industry requirements and evolving workforce demands.
Steve Gingell, Head of Construction at Wiltshire College & University Centre, said: “It was great to meet with Jess and discuss our provision, as well as explore opportunities for how we can continue to improve and respond to industry requirements,
“As we drive forward with our 150 in 100 campaign, partnerships like this are vital. We’re looking forward to working closely with Aster Group to create further opportunities and projects for students, and to embed the skills required by industry into our curriculum design.”
The impact of strong employer partnerships can be seen in apprentices like Ollie Savage, recently named Carpentry Apprentice of the Year at the College’s Apprenticeship and Work Placement Awards.
Ollie, 22, from Salisbury, said his apprenticeship had helped him achieve something he is “very proud” of, adding: “I was never very academic at school. I’ve come out of education and achieved this.”
For employers like Aster Group, that kind of progress is exactly why close collaboration with training providers matters.
Jess said: “Our partnership with Wiltshire College & University Centre is incredibly valuable to us. By working closely together, we’re able to create a more bespoke and meaningful learning experience for students, supported by clear, consistent communication. This collaboration ensures learners receive the tailored support they need to thrive.”
As we continue our 150 in 100 campaign – our commitment to creating 150 new apprenticeship opportunities in 100 days — partnerships with employers like Aster Group play a crucial role. By working closely together, we ensure apprenticeships deliver real value for learners, employers and the wider region.
Join our 150 in 100 campaign
If you’re an employer interested in offering an apprenticeship or exploring training opportunities as part of our 150 in 100 pledge, we’d love to hear from you.
