Sport Students at Penwith College

“Meeting new people, pushing you out of your comfort zone in lessons, learning new things that you don’t know, and then being able to put that into your life, it definitely develops you as a person.”

Subjects studied:
Sport (Level 3)

Former school:
Various schools across Cornwall

What’s next:
Progression into Higher Education or employment within the sport and physical activity sector

For many students, starting College felt like a big step into something new. Some described feeling nervous on their first day, unsure of what to expect and not knowing anyone on their course.

Dan explained: “To be fair, I was quite nervous on my first day because I didn’t really know anyone on the course. Now I’ve grown into it. I get on with everyone in the class quite well, so I’m less nervous now. It’s all good.”

That sense of belonging quickly grew as students began to settle into College life and build strong relationships with their peers.

“I’ve met everyone and get on along with everyone in the class quite well,” Dan said. “Being able to get a good relationship with everyone in my course as well as the lecturers, I know I’m leaving a changed person for the best.”

A key theme throughout their experience is the strength of those relationships, not only with fellow students but also with lecturers who support them throughout their studies. Students consistently highlight the value of using that support to its full potential.

“Use your lecturers as much as possible,” Riley said. “They’ve got good knowledge and they’re experienced in what you’re going to be learning.”

The Sport (Level 3) course also allows students to connect learning directly to their own sporting experiences. For those already involved in sport, this has made lessons more relevant and engaging.

“I play football,” Isaac explained. “So when we’re doing a coaching module, I can apply it straight away. I understand the game, so I can link it to what I’m doing in lessons.”

Students also reflected on the importance of passion and commitment when studying Sport, especially when assignments draw on real sporting experience.

“You’ve got to be passionate about sport,” Eva said. “Most of the assignments are based on your own experiences, so if you don’t do a sport, that can be harder. But it is a really good course. I do recommend it.”

Alongside academic development, students spoke about the independence and freedom that College offers compared with school life.

“In College you’ve got a lot more freedom,” Dan  said. “You can go off campus at lunch and break, whereas in school you’re in the same building all day.”

For many, this independence has been a positive part of their transition, helping them develop responsibility and confidence.

Students also reflected on how College life has helped them grow socially, particularly through meeting new people outside of their previous friendship groups.

“At school you’re kind of stuck in the same friendship group,” Eva said. “With College you get to meet and experiment with different people you’ve never met before.”

Overall, students describe their experience at Penwith College as one that has helped them grow both personally and academically. From building confidence to developing practical skills and forming new friendships, they leave feeling more prepared for their future in sport and beyond. “It will be worth it in the end,” Isaac said. “You come to College and you earn your grades.”