This course develops your knowledge, skills and abilities as an assistant swimming teacher. It will enable you to actively support a qualified swimming teacher in the delivery of a planned learn to swim session.

Training format

• Face to Face – 4 days
• Blended Learning – 6 hours of online learning followed by 2 days face to face
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Blended Learning is a more flexible approach where you complete the theoretical elements of the course online through interactive activities and checks on learning, prior to the practical workshops.

Try our Blended Learning sample

Who is the course designed for?

Anyone interested in starting a career in teaching swimming or wants to assist a swimming teacher. Blended courses are best suited to those with some prior experience of supporting swimming lessons.

Course content

The course is delivered through a mixture of classroom activities and practical poolside learning. You will participate in at least four 30-minute swimming lessons to gain hands-on practical experience.

You will learn about:

• The legal aspects of assisting in swimming lessons
• The responsibilities of a Swimming Assistant
• The swimming pathway, fundamental movement, core aquatic skills and component parts of strokes
• Scientific principles of swimming
• What makes up a lesson plan, equipment and communications skills
• How to identify anxiety and use of motivational techniques
• The type of assistance you can provide

Download the full Swim England Level 1 Swimming Assistant (Teaching) specification.

Prerequisites

You must be at least 16 years of age. There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification and you do not need any previous experience of teaching.

Job prospects

With many pools on the lookout for new staff, job prospects are good. Pay starts at £6–£10 an hour. For a full breakdown of average hourly rates see our salary checker.

For current employment openings, you can also look at our jobs section.