Introducing the NAMSS Impact Awards
As we celebrate our 40th anniversary, we’re shining a spotlight on the people who make a real difference across further education.
Since 1987 NAMSS has been part of a community dedicated to supporting students of all ages and, strengthening the further education (FE) sector. Now, as we celebrate this incredible milestone, we’re launching something special to recognise the people at the heart of that impact: the NAMSS Impact Awards
These awards are all about celebrating the individuals whose dedication, passion and commitment have made a meaningful difference to people’s lives.
Every impact matters and every story deserves to be celebrated
Across FE, NAMSS members make a difference every day. Sometimes it’s through transforming the experiences of students, sometimes by supporting colleagues, inspiring teams or helping people overcome challenges. Often, it’s through the countless contributions that make FE communities stronger, more inclusive and so successful.
The NAMSS Impact Awards are an opportunity to recognise those contributions and celebrate the ordinary but very special people behind them.
And the best part? There are no set criteria to meet. We want these awards to be as relevant and inclusive as possible, welcoming nominations that demonstrate a clear, significant impact on people — whatever the nominee’s role, career stage or length of service in FE.
Whether someone is at the beginning of their career or has spent decades making a difference, if they’ve had a big impact on people, we want to hear about them!
Help us celebrate our people
We’re inviting nominations throughout our 40th anniversary year, with judging taking place regularly and awards being presented throughout 2026/27.
That means there are plenty of opportunities to recognise someone whose work deserves to be celebrated. You might know a colleague who consistently goes above and beyond, someone who has inspired others to achieve more, or an individual whose contribution has made a lasting difference to the people around them.
Now is the time to give them the recognition they deserve
Nominating is simple: just complete our online nomination form, telling us in no more than 300 words how your nominee has made a significant impact on people. No supporting evidence is required, just a clear, compelling account of the difference they have made.
To be eligible, both the nominator and nominee must currently work for a NAMSS member organisation, although they do not need to be named members themselves.
A special recognition for an exceptional contribution
Every award winner will receive a certificate, a very special NAMSS Award Winner lapel badge and a £30 voucher, a small token of appreciation for the significant difference they have made.
Winners and their nominators will be contacted by email, and details of both will be shared on the NAMSS website and LinkedIn page, helping us celebrate their achievements with the wider community.
Be part of our 40th anniversary celebrations
Our 40th anniversary is a chance to reflect on how far we’ve come, celebrate the strength of our community and recognise the people who continue to shape the future of further education and the students who make our organisations as special as they are.
The NAMSS Impact Awards are about more than celebrating achievements. They’re about recognising people, sharing inspiring stories and reminding ourselves of the extraordinary difference individuals can make.
Let’s celebrate our people, share their impact and recognise the difference they make across further education — one nomination at a time!
Nominate someone for a NAMSS Impact Award in 2026/27 using our online nomination form.
