Merrist Wood College and University Centre are celebrating the incredible achievements of Level 3 Sports Coaching student, Conor Banks, 18, whose determination, passion and resilience have led him to secure a place at St Mary’s University to study Sports Coaching from September 2026.
Conor, who has cerebral palsy, joined the course with a love of sport and a clear ambition to succeed. Now, after nearly two years of hard work and personal growth, he is preparing to take the next exciting step in his journey.
Seeing potential beyond the paperwork
Conor chose Merrist Wood College for a reason that goes beyond course content.
“I looked at couple of other colleges,” he explains, “but they saw me as what was written on paper… my conditions. Merrist Wood College saw me as a person, and someone who, with some support, could achieve their ambitions.”
That belief made all the difference. With the support of his tutors, particularly Robbie and Kieron, Conor was able to thrive.
“They’ve made my challenges feel like differences, not challenges,” he says.
A passion for sport and coaching
A huge Chelsea fan, from a young age, football has been at the heart of Conor’s life. Starting at just five years old, and encouraged by his football fan Mum, he has played disability football at a high level and continues to represent Chelsea in cerebral palsy football.
His time at college has deepened that passion, giving him both the knowledge and confidence to pursue coaching as a career.
“I’ve enjoyed every second,” Conor says. “From the practical sessions to learning coaching principles… I definitely picked the right college.”
A key highlight of his course was a visit to St Mary’s University, where he experienced coaching in a new way.
“That trip really opened my eyes… it’s one of the main reasons I wanted to go to university,” he says.
Giving back through coaching
Alongside his studies, Conor has been gaining valuable work experience with the students at The Woodlands Centre on campus at Merrist Wood College, delivering sports sessions to young people with high needs.
“My main goal is to get them more active, more moving, and to have fun,” he explains. And judging by the warm welcome he receives when he walks through the doors to the centre, both the staff and students clearly look forward to seeing him every week.
For Conor, this work is deeply personal.
“This feels like my way of giving back… I’ve been in similar environments, and now I can help others.”
He finds real joy in making a difference and would like to continue to come back to run more sessions when his college course comes to an end.
“I love seeing the smiles on their faces… every session brings something new.”
Looking ahead to a bright future
This September, Conor will begin his degree in Sports Coaching at St Mary’s University, with ambitions that reflect both his passion and determination.
Whether it’s coaching at the highest level, working in a professional football foundation, or even starting his own coaching business, Conor’s future is full of possibility.
“I want to help people and see how far I can go,” he says.
A true Merrist Wood College success story
Conor’s journey is a powerful example of what can be achieved with the right support, mindset and opportunity. His story reflects the inclusive and student-focused approach at Merrist Wood College—where potential is recognised, nurtured and celebrated.
Conor’s tutor, Robbie Porter, comments: “We are incredibly proud of Conor and the progress he’s made—not just as a student, but as a person. He has shown outstanding dedication, resilience and commitment throughout his time with us, and it’s been a real privilege to support him on his journey. Seeing his hard work lead to a place at St Mary’s University is fantastic, and we’ve no doubt he’ll continue to achieve great things in this next chapter.”
Find out more about our Sports pathways here: