Swim England overhauls teacher qualifications

Swim England, the national governing body for swimming, has overhauled its teaching qualification structure, introducing a new streamlined, “one qualification” pathway to becoming a swimming teacher.

The new SEQ Level 2 in Teaching Swimming qualification has been designed to consolidate the learning journey, allowing individuals to become fully qualified and poolside ready more efficiently.

The traditional, two-step qualification process comprised a Level 1 Swimming Assistant (Teaching) course, followed by Level 2 Teaching Swimming course or an intense combined Level 1 and 2 course. These have been replaced with one single, comprehensive Level 2 qualification.

Developed following a sector-wide consultation with learners, operators, licensed educators and tutors, the new Swim England qualification directly aligns with CIMSPA’s updated Swimming Teacher Professional Standard.

Sarah Green, Head of Workforce Education at Swim England, said: “It’s essential that our qualifications continue to meet industry needs. The recent sector-wide consultation highlighted a clear need for change.

“Learners are seeking faster, more accessible training with a stronger emphasis on practical skills rather than academic content. There is also growing demand for a ‘one-course’ approach, without the intensity of a combined course. At the same time, our partners need high-quality teachers with the confidence and capability to deliver exceptional lessons from day one.”