In partnership with

If you want to become a swimming teacher and work for an exciting, forward-thinking swim school based in Darlington then this is the perfect opportunity for you.

The academy allows aspiring teachers to receive part-funded training, mentoring, and be matched with an employer.

Apply now to start your journey to becoming a swimming teacher!

The academy gives trainee teachers the chance to embark on a career as a swimming teacher for only £79, compared to the usual cost of over £1,000.

Successful applicants who join the academy will complete their SEQ Level 1 Swimming Assistant (Teaching) and Level 2 Teaching Swimming qualifications.

We support trainees through their training journey with Institute of Swimming Membership which includes over £100 worth of free e-learning.

In between the courses, there is a period of volunteering with a potential employer to gain practical experience. Trainees also benefit from e-learning to help them develop as well as getting expert advice and support from a mentor to ensure they have the necessary experience for the role and are ready to hit the poolside well equipped to teach.

Teaching Swimming is an active and rewarding role. Work hours are generally part-time and there are a variety of working hours available across weekdays and weekends. For these roles, there may be an opportunity to work across the following leisure centres;

• Hummersknott Academy, Edinburgh Drive, Darlington, DL3 8AR
• Education Village, Salters Lane South, Darlington, DL1 2AN

Once qualified successful trainees will be employed as swimming teachers by Swim Buddies on an employed or self-employed basis.

About Swim Buddies 

Swim Buddies have over 15 years of experience in the ‘Learn to Swim’ industry, lead by Olympian and Institute of Swimming Tutor Chris Cook. Due to the high demand for our swimming lesson, we are looking for talented and enthusiastic swimming teachers to join our growing team of instructors. With pool locations across the Darlington area, we would love to hear from you.
Swim Buddies have teaching hours available in the Darlington area, 7 days per week.

Rate of pay £14.00 – £16.00 per hour depending on experience.

We’re looking for enthusiastic people who, with training, we can help become talented swimming teachers that are:

• Passionate and enthusiastic about teaching children how to swimming.
• Have excellent communication skills.
• Able to plan and deliver lessons to the Swim England framework and our schedule of works.
• Professional, punctual and have great organisation skills are essential to implement the organisation of swimming classes.
• Able to provide explanations and demonstrate swimming techniques in the water.
• A positive role model, creating a positive and fun environment for teaching swimming.
• Able to ensure the safe provision of all equipment and ensure it is used correctly on poolside
• Capable make sure safety standards are followed in sessions and undertake risk assessments daily
• Flexibility to work weekdays, evenings and weekends
• Life Saving / Rescue Certificate (Further training provided)
• Safeguarding Certificate (Further training provided)
• Current DBS or one can be provided by Swim Buddies

Additional training can be given to successful candidates who do not hold all relevant qualifications, as stated above.

Academy Itinerary

You don’t need any prior qualifications to apply as you will be supported through your training. 

Applications close on 31st August 2021.

Interviews will take place on w/c 6th September 2021.

There will be an informal meet and greet on w/c 6th September 2021 where you will meet current swimming teachers and members of Swim Buddies.

Successful applicants will embark on their aquatic journey starting initially with the SEQ Level 1 Swimming Assistant (Teaching) theoretical elements. This will be delivered online through interactive e-learning. The SEQ Level 1 Swimming Assistant practical elements will be scheduled upon completion of the theoretical elements. This will start with two zoom webinars to cover some practical topics and your venue orientation. You will then go on to do one, half-day practical session at the pool and have a final webinar with your tutor.

Upon completion of the full SEQ Level 1 Swimming Assistant qualification, you would then go on to gain some practical experience with the swim school.

The SEQ Level 2 Teaching Swimming course will be scheduled at a later date.

If you have any questions before applying you can contact us at recruitmentacademy@swimming.org.