Quentin’s remarkable journey has taken him from the classroom to the pool and led him to a fulfilling retirement career

Quentin, 61, is a swimming teacher for Lex Leisure in Stoke-on-Trent.

Quentin explains how he first became interested in swimming, and how he maintains his passion in his retirement.

Quentin says: “40 years ago when I was a primary school teacher, I used to accompany my pupils to their swimming lessons with the school.”

“I always enjoyed the visit, and one time the swimming teacher asked if I would mind assisting the class. I enjoyed it so much that I went on to get my swimming teacher qualifications. That was a long time ago! However, throughout my career in education, having my Swim England qualifications was always a bonus on my CV. Often, when I went for a new teaching job, it was a skillset that stood me above my competitors.”

“Throughout my educational career, I have always taught the school’s national curriculum swimming programme. Even when I eventually became a head teacher I still made sure I went with my pupils to help deliver their swimming lessons. Being a head teacher didn’t allow me much time to actually ‘teach’ children, as so much of a head’s time is taken up with management, so able to spend that hour or so with them in the pool each week was a great release from the desk job.”

“Teaching swimming has a very direct and immediate impact on kids. Unlike teaching phonics, progress can often happen quickly. It’s incredibly rewarding.”

Now Quentin has retired he works part time, 20 hours a week, as a swimming teacher. He says:

“It’s great to be able to top up my pension whilst still maintaining the joy of teaching and working with young people. Teaching swimming is great fun, it keeps me on my toes and keeps me feeling young!”

“For someone that has always enjoyed inspiring young people and loves to teach, being a swimming teacher is a great solution. I also find a lot of the team I work with are younger than me, which keeps me in touch with modern life and youth. I plan to keep on teaching swimming well into my retirement, as it gives me a great work/life balance.”

Inspired by Quentin’s journey? Want to start your journey to become a swimming teacher …

ℹ️ Get more information on becoming a swimming teacher
🔍 Search our courses
📧 Sign up for our newsletter