Name: Connor
Hometown: Penzance
Former school: Pencalenick School
Course: BTEC Level 3 National Foundation Diploma in Sport & Exercise Science.
Academies: Football Academy
From starting in Foundation Studies, (now Progression Pathways) to thriving in Level 3 Sport and Exercise Science, Connor’s journey is a testament to his determination and passion for learning.
Having been a sportsman all his life, Connor knew this course would offer everything he needed to look, reach and go further at Penwith College.
A lifelong sports enthusiast, Connor was confident that this course would provide everything he needed to excel at Penwith College – both academically and personally. The transition from Foundation Studies to Level 2 Sport and Exercise Science was a significant leap, but with the support of his lecturers, Connor quickly adapted to the new teaching style and increased workload. To his surprise, he achieved top grades in his first year.
Reflecting on his success, Connor said: “I told myself, ‘I’m going to give it my all and show I can do this.’ Did I expect Distinction-Stars in my first year? Not at all!”
Connor also praised the campus environment, saying: “The campus is a great place and the atmosphere is always friendly. The lessons are engaging, and we are always encouraged to do our best.”
In addition to his studies, Connor joined the Football Academy, which gave him the chance to meet like-minded individuals and forge new connections around his favourite sport.
Whilst stuyding Level 2 Sport and Exercise Science, Connor focused on passing his GCSE English and GCSE Maths to be able to progress onto the Level 3 course. Although GCSE Maths proved challenging at first, the expert guidance from his tutors made the subject much easier.
Connor said: “My lecturer understood the levels of everyone in class and taught in a way where everyone was engaged, and he helped simplify how the maths questions were worded. So, when it came to my exams, I could understand the questions a lot better because of how I was taught.”
With the support of our dedicated tutors, Connor successfully passed his GCSE English and GCSE Maths at Penwith College and is now enjoying studying his final year doing Level 3 Sport and Exercise Science.
Connor’s advice for future students looking to study at Penwith College is: “Always look at things with open eyes and take advice from those helping you to become better. Rise above what is holding you back, then the sky is the limit.”
As if his accomplishments weren’t impressive enough, Connor is also an England Colleges Football Association (ECFA) Activator and helps out with our college football teams along with writing amazing match reports. His main focus is making inclusive Football sessions for Progression Pathways students to enjoy.
Looking ahead, Connor plans to pursue Sports Journalism at university, eager to turn his passion for sport into a rewarding career.
