At North Hertfordshire College, we take immense pride in the progression our students make during their studies. Whether they study one course with us, or start at one level and work their way up through our programmes, every learner who comes through our doors and builds new skills and knowledge is something to be proud of. Take Abbie Barnwell, for example!
Abbie first started her North Hertfordshire College journey in the 2019/20 academic year as a Level 2 Sports student. She has since worked her way through our Sports qualifications and is now in her final year at the College and is about to complete her Level 5 HND in Sport & Exercise Science. The learning doesn’t end here, though – she’s currently applying for a bachelor’s degree in Physiotherapy!
Sports is certainly something Abbie is passionate about, leading a rich sporting life outside of the College. In 2019, she finished 4th in the National Open Water Swimming 800m freestyle, before returning in 2021 to finish 1st in her age bracket. She even finished 3rd in the Junior European Championships – a remarkable experience! Not content with only developing her own swimming abilities, Abbie also works as a swimming coach to help others build their talent.
Her dedication to learning, development, and honing her skills has not gone unnoticed – Abbie has been selected by her fellow classmates to be their Curriculum Representative! This role will see her help to shape the student experience for her fellow learners, collating the feedback from Class Reps and liaising with the curriculum staff, Student Governor, and the Student Experience team to create plans for the future.
Dr George Payne, the Programme Manager for Higher National Diploma in Sport & Exercise Science at North Hertfordshire College, said: “Having seen Abbie progress from Level 2 Sport to Level 5 Sport & Exercise Science, to her final preparations in enrolling on an undergraduate degree in Physiotherapy, is extremely gratifying. Abbie is testament that a strong work ethic, professional conduct, and an unending passion to learn is a formidable combination for success. Now Abbie has been nominated as Curriculum Rep, she is further developing her course’s Top Ten Skills by upskilling others and providing timely, meaningful feedback to the curriculum team. Abbie is a valued student here at NHC, and a paragon for any of our students who are striving for high achievement.”
What an amazing journey Abbie has gone on during her time with North Hertfordshire College – we can’t wait to see what she achieves in the future!
If you’re interested in following in Abbie’s footsteps, be sure to check out North Hertfordshire College’s range of study options. At NHC, you can stay close to home and earn the qualifications that help you go far in your future career.