Natalia Plywacz, a Level 3 Public Services student from Bridgwater College has landed herself a position on the National Student Management Team (NSMT) after sending in her application to the Association of Colleges (AoC) Sport.

AoC Sport is the lead representative organisation for further education and sixth form college sport and physical activity. Over thirty students applied to join this year’s NSMT, which brings together the ‘Team Nineteen’ (participation football) National Student Management Team and National Youth Council.

Natalia was just one of twelve students who managed to obtain a role on the NSMT after handing in a high quality application, which displayed Natalia’s experience and passion to develop leadership, communication skills and teamwork. Natalia and the successful students will represent the views of their peers, lead prestigious sporting events – including the AoC Sport National Championships and ‘Team Nineteen’ festivals – and receive expert training to develop their skills.

Natalia’s current experience in volunteering has been enhanced through her course, as well as her involvement in the College’s volunteer programme, Team BC Activators. Since being an Activator, Natalia has gained knowledge and experience in delivering a number of sports as well as football, including volleyball and basketball.

Natalia’s first meeting with the NSMT will be on 5 February at St George’s Park. Team members will receive an introduction to college sport, take part in learner voice sessions and be asked to develop ideas that will impact on sports participation in their college.

Natalia Plywacz, aged 17 and from Bridgwater said,

“Being accepted to be a part of the NSMT is one of my biggest achievements during my time at Bridgwater College. Knowing that you have been accepted into a team which runs on such a big level and receiving help from staff to develop your personal skills feels great. I never thought I would be accepted, until I applied. This automatically boosted my confidence when I received the email to inform me I am part of the team.”

Tyne Govier, Public Services Programme Manager said,

“Natalia is an example to any student at this age what hard work and dedication can create. She works tirelessly to ensure the work that this team does is of a high quality and benefits those that are involved. I am sure Natalia will be an asset to this role and can only develop her further in this industry.”

Carly Martin, Bridgwater College Sports Maker, and Head of Team BC Activators said,

“Natalia is a reliable, committed and enthusiastic student and is a credit to the Team BC Activators. Being a part of the NSMT is a great achievement and I know Natalia will flourish in this environment, gaining lots of valuable experience.”