Students at NPTC Group of Colleges are continuing to achieve success both academically and, on the pitch, with Grace John and Ellie Gibbins earning the honour of representing Welsh Colleges in football.
Grace, a midfielder, and Ellie, a striker, have both demonstrated outstanding commitment to their sport, balancing the demands of high-level training and competition alongside their studies at college.
Representing Welsh Colleges is a significant achievement, providing opportunities to compete at a high standard while developing key skills such as teamwork, communication and discipline. Through their involvement in football, Grace and Ellie have continued to challenge themselves, gaining valuable experience and confidence in a competitive environment.
Alongside their sporting success, both students are working hard on their academic studies. Grace is currently studying A-levels in Chemistry, Biology and Geography, while Ellie is studying A-level Physical Education alongside Criminology and AS-level Psychology. Their dedication to both their studies and their sport highlights their strong work ethic and commitment to personal development.
Balancing study with training schedules and fixtures requires careful time management, organisation and resilience, skills they continue to strengthen through their dual commitments.
Both students have highlighted the importance of the support they receive from college staff, who have helped them stay on track with their studies while competing at a high level. This support has enabled them to manage deadlines, catch up when needed and maintain strong academic progress alongside their sporting achievements.
Like many student athletes, Grace and Ellie have also had to overcome challenges along the way, particularly in balancing the physical and mental demands of sport with the expectations of their studies. Their ability to remain focused and motivated reflects their determination to succeed in both areas.
They also encourage other students to pursue opportunities in representative sport, emphasising the importance of hard work, commitment and pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone. Their experiences show that while the journey can be demanding, the rewards and sense of achievement make it worthwhile.
Looking ahead, both students are aiming to continue progressing in football while also working towards their future ambitions beyond college. Their involvement in Welsh Colleges football provides a strong platform to build experience, confidence and further opportunities within the sport.
Support from staff at NPTC Group of Colleges has played an important role in helping them succeed, with guidance and flexibility enabling them to keep up with their studies while pursuing their ambitions in football.
Rhiannon Simms is the Colleges girls football coach and had this to say about the two:
“Ellie and Grace have been outstanding leaders for the College football team, bringing constant energy, enthusiasm and support to their teammates. Earning selection for the highly competitive Welsh Colleges squad is a testament to their skill, commitment and character. They balance high-level performance with exceptional academic standards, and with Grace progressing to study medicine and Ellie sport and exercise therapy, they are true role models and ambassadors for the college.”
Their achievements highlight the wide range of opportunities available to students at the College, where individuals are encouraged to develop their talents and strive for success both in and out of the classroom.
As they continue their journeys, Grace and Ellie will look to build on this experience, aiming to progress further in the sport while continuing their education and personal development.
