Designed to recognise learners who have overcome significant personal challenges to succeed in their studies, the Against All Odds award celebrates resilience, determination and achievement. This year’s adult winner is Ursula Cullen, whose inspiring return to education has been shaped by extraordinary strength and commitment.
The challenge
Ursula Cullen returned to education at South West College nearly 30 years after completing her A Levels, beginning her NCFE CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Supporting Teaching and Learning with low confidence and limited digital skills.
Her journey has taken place alongside significant personal responsibilities and profound adversity. As a mother of six, she has balanced her studies while supporting her family through a series of life-changing events, including caring for a daughter after a serious car accident and supporting her husband through early onset Alzheimer’s until he required full-time care.
Ursula has also coped with bereavement and her mother’s terminal illness but, despite these challenges, has remained committed to her studies, determined to succeed and rebuild her confidence through education.
The journey
Through dedication and perseverance, Ursula has made exceptional academic progress. She has developed her digital skills, successfully completing online portfolios, meeting deadlines and producing reflective, thoughtful work of a high standard.
Alongside her own achievements, Ursula has been a source of encouragement to others, supporting her peers and contributing positively to the learning environment. Her growth in confidence and capability has been evident throughout her journey.
Fey Cole, Curriculum Manager for Health, Life, and Personal Sciences at South West College, said: "At SWC, one of our key focuses is to promote lifelong learning. Ursula has shown the true value of returning to education during adulthood and how it has not just brought vocational knowledge and opportunities, but has also built confidence and developed self-confidence.
"Ursula has overcome extreme barriers, helped others, and role-modelled the values of both the college and the sector. We also want to recognise the work that goes on behind the scenes by SWC HLPS team to ensure every student gains a high-quality and innovative learning experience. Special thanks to Ursula’s Tutor, Siobhan Lynch, for her encouragement, expertise and student support."
Her success has also extended to her school placement, where she has excelled and secured employment, demonstrating her professionalism and readiness to progress into the sector.
A truly deserving winner
Ursula embodies empathy, resilience and determination. Her ability to overcome personal adversity while continuing to support others and achieve academically makes her a powerful role model for adult learners.
Speaking on her win, Ursula said: "I am deeply humbled to have been deemed the worthy recipient of this award. It is definitely a great honour and very much appreciated. The journey back into education was full of apprehension, however, the support from my family, school, combined with South West College, my tutor Siobhan and my fellow classmates has been invaluable in enabling me to achieve so much.
"Thank you all and I hope to keep progressing with my journey. I encourage others to not let fear or lack of confidence stop them from enrolling on a course as there are so many positives to be gained."
Fey Cole added: "We are so proud of the way Ursula has embraced her qualification in Supporting Teaching and Learning and know she will use her Diploma to make sure children and young people see and reach their full potential. All the team are celebrating the NCFE recognition and are delighted to see such a worthy winner gain the NCFE ‘Against All Odds’ Award."
As an inspiring future practitioner, her journey highlights the transformative impact of education and the strength it takes to pursue it in the face of life’s challenges. Ursula Cullen is a truly deserving winner of the Against All Odds (Adult) award.
Congratulations Ursula! To read more inspirational stories from this year’s award winners, visit our Aspiration Awards 2026 page.
