A long-serving careers adviser at Bradford College has been recognised on the national stage after being named Support Staff of the Year at the 2026 NCFE Aspiration Awards.
The annual awards celebrate learners, apprentices, educators, support staff and education providers from across the UK who are making an outstanding contribution to learning. They recognise those who go above and beyond to support others, overcome challenges and find innovative ways to help people achieve their potential.
This week, NCFE announced Gulshan Bi, a careers adviser at Bradford College, as the winner of the prestigious award in recognition of her exceptional commitment to supporting students.
Gulshan was shortlisted alongside nine finalists from education institutions across the country before being selected as the overall winner for the remarkable impact she has made on the lives of students, many of whom face complex or sensitive personal circumstances.
Despite working part-time, Gulshan is recognised for ensuring every student leaves the careers office feeling listened to, reassured and empowered. Her calm, compassionate approach helps students build confidence in their next steps, while her professionalism ensures they receive accurate and tailored careers guidance.
Nick Scaife, Head of Student Services at Bradford College, said:
“I am incredibly proud to celebrate Gulshan Bi for receiving the NCFE Support Staff of the Year award. This recognition is so deserved and truly reflects the exceptional commitment, care and passion that Gulshan brings to the role every single day.
“Gulshan consistently goes above and beyond to support our students, ensuring they feel valued, heard and able to achieve their full potential. Their dedication is evident in everything they do, from the time they invest in students to the positive impact they have across the wider college community.
“This award couldn’t have gone to a more deserving person, and we are all immensely proud to have Gulshan as part of our careers team.”
Gulshan Bi said:
“After nearly two decades at Bradford College, I am honoured to be recognised as NCFE Support Staff of the Year. As a careers adviser, I have had the privilege of supporting students as they make important decisions about their futures and helping to transform lives through education, guidance and opportunity.
“Seeing students grow in confidence and achieve their goals has always been the most rewarding part of my role. I am grateful for this recognition and proud to be part of a college community that is committed to helping students succeed.”
Founded by the educational charity NCFE, the Aspiration Awards are now in their ninth year and continue to celebrate the achievements of learners, apprentices, educators and education providers across the UK.
This year’s winners were selected by a panel of influential figures from education, skills and the media. David Gallagher, Chief Executive Officer at NCFE, said the judges brought “valuable insight into the challenges and opportunities within further education, helping us shine a light on those achieving extraordinary things.”
Award winners and highly commended recipients will each receive a certificate and gift voucher.
Bradford College’s Careers Service continues to receive national recognition for the quality of its support. The service holds Matrix Accreditation and was awarded the prestigious Quality in Careers Standard in 2021 for its commitment to delivering outstanding careers information, advice and guidance. The accreditation was successfully renewed in 2024.
