Ivan van der Ploeg
Southport
Summary
A dedicated and adaptable Sports Management student at Edge Hill University (Year 3), passionate about supporting young people through sport and education. I am seeking the opportunity to undertake my university placement with Tranmere Rovers Football Club’s Education Hub, where I can contribute to the delivery of the BTEC Sport programme while developing my practical teaching and leadership skills.
I am motivated by the positive impact sport can have on young people’s personal growth, mental health, and career development. My previous experience with Everton in the Community’s Tackling the Blues programme has strengthened my understanding of how sport can be used as a vehicle for learning and wellbeing. I work effectively in a team, adapt quickly to new environments, and approach every challenge with resilience, empathy, and professionalism.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
3
3
years of post-secondary education
1
1
Certification
Work history
Retail Assistant (Part-Time)
SPAR, Southport
Southport
06.2023 - 11.2025
- Provided excellent customer service in a fast-paced environment.
- Developed teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving skills.
- Maintained professionalism and reliability under pressure.
- Resolved customer complaints, ensuring satisfaction and repeat business.
- Supported team members for improved operational efficiency.
Tackling the Blues Mentor
Everton in the Community
, Merseyside
12.2024 - 05.2025
- Delivered mental health and wellbeing sessions using sport as a learning tool for pupils in Primary and Secondary School.
- Encouraged emotional literacy, teamwork, and inclusion through physical activity, social activities, and presentations.
- Collaborated with teachers and mentors to engage young people in positive learning experiences.
- Organised group discussions promoting critical thinking and problem-solving skills among participants.
- Adapted mentoring approach to accommodate different learning styles and personalities.
- Cultivated strong and trusting rapport with pupils, building safe and inclusive environments.
Event Organiser (Holiday Club)
Wollaston Church
Wollaston, Northamptonshire
08.2019 - 09.2019
- Planned and led multi-day activity sessions for local children and young people.
- Liaised with local businesses for funding and ensured sessions were engaging and safe.
- Strengthened leadership, communication, and organisational skills.
- Developed engaging programme content capturing audience interest.
- Minimised risk of unforeseen issues via thorough contingency planning.
- Monitored event activities closely maintaining high-quality standards throughout.
Education
BSc (Hons) - Sports Management
Edge Hill University
09.2023 - 08.2026
Skills
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Adaptability and resilience
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Leadership and initiative
- Experience supporting young people
- Organisation and reliability
- Empathy and understanding
Certification
- Mental Health Literacy Training (Tackling the Blues Programme)
Languages
English
Fluent
Afrikaans
Fluent
Dutch
Upper intermediate
Relevant Experience
- Local Primary School Outreach, Language Leader (Volunteer), 2019.
Assisted in delivering interactive foreign language lessons to pupils aged 7–11.
Promoted cultural awareness and confidence in learning.
Received positive feedback for teamwork and creativity.
Timeline
Tackling the Blues Mentor
Everton in the Community
12.2024 - 05.2025
BSc (Hons) - Sports Management
Edge Hill University
09.2023 - 08.2026
Retail Assistant (Part-Time)
SPAR, Southport
06.2023 - 11.2025
Event Organiser (Holiday Club)
Wollaston Church
08.2019 - 09.2019