ATC is a fantastic environment to work in, with a great bunch of people. However (In no way inferring you), it is very easy to get a name if you upset people.
Please don't take that the wrong way, its not a gentlemans club, but it is a small world sometimes..
As was said previously, all the colleges are regulated by the CAA, so there isn't a great deal in it, I would imagine.
All the best with your NATS application. Its hard work but well worth it in the end.