Aspiration Awards 2025: Support Staff of the Year – Andrew Firth

The Support Staff of the Year award aims to honour a member of the behind-the-scenes team who has gone above and beyond to help learners and their colleagues. This year’s winner, Andrew Firth, is recognised for his outstanding commitment to students at Leeds City College. Andrew goes beyond excelling in his administrative role and acts as a mentor and advocate for students. His willingness to listen, guide, and uplift has seen countless students turn their challenges into triumphs. 

A career dedicated to education support 

Andrew Firth is an administrator at Leeds City College with decades of experience. As he approaches his 70th birthday, we want to ensure his exceptional dedication to education support is being celebrated. There are many ways that Andrew has gone above and beyond to have a lifelong impact on learners. 

As an administrator, Andrew is naturally highly organised and timely. Not content with simply being a top performer in his role, Andrew also chooses to share these skills with learners by organising interactive workshops, with his sessions covering study skills, time management, and exam preparation. 

The sessions provide learners with valuable transferable skills which will allow them to succeed academically and professionally. Andrew’s efforts have shaped not just individual achievements, but a culture of self-confidence and resilience within the college. 

Role-modelling learning 

Andrew isn’t one to remain stagnant or rest on his laurels. He relentlessly seeks continuous professional development and remains committed to learning, evolving, and refining his ability to support students. He regularly attends workshops and training sessions which cover a variety of new skills, including emerging technologies, eagerly absorbing new strategies to enhance his work and sharing his insights with colleagues. 

“Andrew has a unique ability to connect with students on a personal level,” shares Sarah Thompson, teacher at Leeds City College. “Many students have expressed their gratitude for Andrew’s willingness to listen and provide constructive feedback. This individual attention has not only helped them improve their academic performance but has also boosted their confidence and motivation.” 

His enthusiasm has cultivated a culture of continuous learning, inspiring both staff and students to push boundaries, seek knowledge, and never stop growing. This appetite for growth allows Andrew to remain adaptable in the face of changing educational landscapes and evolving student needs. 

Going above and beyond 

Andrew’s commitment to student success does not stop when the work day ends. During high-pressure exam periods, he takes it upon himself to organise revision sessions, ensuring learners receive the targeted support they need. Fostering a strong sense of community, Andrew organises social events and team-building activities that bring together students and staff, which strengthens relationships and creates an uplifting, collaborative atmosphere. 

“Andrew has been instrumental in fostering a sense of community within the college,” explains Sarah. “These initiatives have improved morale and strengthened relationships among staff and students, contributing to a positive and collaborative environment.” 

Among colleagues, Andrew is a pillar of support as well. He collaborates closely with teaching staff to identify students who may need additional assistance, advocating for the resources that can help them excel. His keen eye for student welfare and his proactive approach have made him a trusted ally among educators, ensuring no learner falls through the cracks. 

A profound impact 

Andrew’s influence is felt far beyond the classroom – his mentorship has helped shape resilient, confident learners who carry his guidance into their futures. His dedication extends beyond the walls 

of Leeds City College, as he has supported young learners across the region, through community engagement, volunteering, and partnerships with local organisations. 

Andrew has played an instrumental role in shaping a future where every learner, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to succeed. His advocacy for students is not just professional, it is personal, driven by a deep belief in the potential of every individual.

Congratulations Andrew! To read more inspirational stories from this year's award winners, visit our Aspiration Awards 2025 page. 

Pictured: Our Support Staff of the Year winner, Andrew Firth (R), is presented his award by Kyle O'Connor (L), Business Development Manager, at NCFE