Swimming Teachers

We recommend that a Swim England Level 2 Swimming Teacher (or equivalent), leads school swimming and water safety lessons – with the support of qualified school staff.

It’s very important that pupils are being taught school swimming and water safety lessons – based on the national curriculum outcomes – and not lessons based on the Swim England Learn to Swim Programme (or other equivalent programme).

As the swimming teacher, your responsibility begins when the school teacher (or other representative) hands over the group of pupils. They will inform you of the number of pupils, together with any additional information about any specific needs.

Your responsibility ends when the pupils leave the water and, while still on the poolside, are returned to the care of the school teacher (or representative).

Lifeguards, school teachers, swimming teachers and additional staff, must know the number of pupils in attendance.

Regular head counts should take place at the beginning, during and at the end of swimming lesson.

What can you do to support schools in improving their swimming attainment levels?

Ensure you understand the national curriculum requirements, it’s not just being able to “swim 25 metres”.

For more support and information, you or your employer can register to become a School Swimming and Water Safety Charter Member – and encourage your schools to sign up too.

What about training?

We offer a programme of study called the National Curriculum Training Programme, developed specifically for school swimming.

Find out more on our School Swimming Training page.