Conor Banks, Sports Coaching

From challenge to champion: One student’s inspiring journey at Merrist Wood College

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.