Get licensed too!
The long term aim of the IoS is to encourage employers to use the licensing scheme to move to a situation where we have a predominantly licensed profession. Read our scenario below to discover the benefits of applying for a licence as well as having IoS membership.
Imagine this scenario… there you are at an interview and it is down to you and one other person. You really want the position. You are dedicated to swimming and the job will offer you the perfect chance to progress your career in aquatics.
But there is little between you and the other candidate. You have the same qualifications and dedication to swimming. The following day you get a call. “Congratulations, you have been successful,” your new employer tells you. So, why did she choose you?
It is simple. By having a teaching and coaching licence your new employer could be confident of your competence and the fact you were continuing your professional development. What’s better, as an IoS member your licence was free and you benefited from 50% off the cost of two recent IoS CPD events
She also knew that she could trust you. As a licence holder you are dedicated to upholding the code of ethics in swimming.
Finally, by hiring a licensed rather than a non-licensed candidate she knew you would act as a catalyst for change in your profession, ensuring her organisation would be associated with being at the cutting edge of swimming teaching and coaching.
As for the other candidate, well he didn’t have a licence, so never really had a look in, even though you had the same level of experience and qualifications.
But it’s just a fictional scenario right?
Wrong! The majority of people involved with swimming and the associated disciplines recognise the need to have a well regulated 'professional' workforce. Licensing can contribute towards the achievement of that aim which is of benefit to teachers and coaches.
The long term aim is to encourage employers to use the licensing scheme as part of the appointment process and to move to a situation where we have a predominantly licensed profession. There is also the option of a bulk licence to cover workforces for employers.
All qualified aquatic instructors, whether paid or unpaid for their service, who meet the stated criteria and are committed to ongoing personal development, have the opportunity to apply for a licence.
For further information on gaining a licence click here. If you have any questions about licensing and the IoS then please contact the IoS directly. Click here to access contact details.
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