Learners Achieve National Sporting Success
The College Merthyr Tydfil is celebrating the outstanding achievements of two learners who have earned national recognition while successfully balancing their academic studies alongside elite‑level sport.
Table Tennis Success for Jack Morgan
Jack Morgan, a BTEC Level 3 Information Technology learner at The College Merthyr Tydfil, has been selected to represent Wales at an international table tennis competition in Sweden this February.
A former pupil of Idris Davies School, Jack is a highly driven learner who combines his studies with competing at a high level in table tennis. Since joining the college, Jack has been an integral part of the College Table Tennis Academy, benefitting from structured, squad‑based training delivered alongside his academic programme.
Speaking about his selection, Jack said:
“I’m really happy to go to Sweden and play for my country, and I’m really looking forward to playing against high‑level players. Since coming to the college, I’ve been part of the table tennis academy, and having sessions with Callum Evans and Sam Havers has helped my development. Having squad‑based sessions at the college has been helpful as it has minimised travel.”
Delme Jenkins, Sports Academy Coordinator, praised Jack’s commitment and progress:
“Jack is a very driven and conscientious learner, and he has balanced his studies and table tennis commitments extremely well. Jack is part of the college’s TASS Dual Athlete scheme, and his educational, sporting and holistic development has really accelerated through being part of this wonderful programme. The college would like to congratulate Jack on his selection.”
Football Recognition for Benjamin Matthews
The college is also proud to celebrate Benjamin Matthews, who has been selected for the Welsh Schools Under 18s squad. Ben is set to link up with the squad to face England Independent Schools at Shrewsbury on 1 February 2026.
Ben currently studies Business at the college and has accessed the Football Academy for the past two years. Alongside his studies, he is a key member of Pontypridd United, demonstrating his ability to perform consistently at a high level both academically and on the pitch.
Reflecting on his selection, Ben said:
“It is an honour to get the opportunity to link up with Welsh Schools. The standard at the trial was really high, so I truly value and appreciate this opportunity. I’d like to express my thanks to David Haggett for his time, knowledge and support. The programme at the college is of an elite standard, and I would recommend it to any future learners.”
College Head Coach David Haggett added:
“I’m really pleased for Ben. He is an excellent learner who is performing very well in his academic studies as well as on the football pitch. Ben is extremely committed, and on behalf of the college we wish him the very best with the upcoming fixtures.”
Supporting Learners to Succeed
These achievements highlight The College Merthyr Tydfil’s commitment to supporting learners through high‑quality academic provision alongside elite sports programmes. Through specialist academies, expert coaching and dual‑career pathways, learners are supported to excel both in education and in sport.
