Swim teaching?

Question

Hi, I'm a qualified lifeguard and have worked at an american summer camp as a lifeguard and swim teacher, although I don't have an official certificate for swim teaching. I have been looking on the internet at what qualifications I would need to be able to teach, and I found the Swim Teachers Association website, but for some reason I can't find out how or where you apply to do the courses. I really want to find somewhere near Canterbury, Kent, or Norwich, Norfolk. Does anyone have an ideas or know of anywhere? Or if they know any good websites? Thanks so much for your help! :)

Answer 1

Qualifications depend on where you are working; some require, some do not.

Water Safety Instructor (WSI) is a good certification to have.  

Check with your local Red Cross or where you got your Lifeguarding cerfitcation to see if they offer WSI.

Answer 2

Go on www.britishswimming.org

You may have a problem though as to become a swimming teacher, you have to start from the bottom. The ASA changed their rules on 1st September 2007, so any Level One Assistant Teacher qualification gained after this date means that you can ONLY assist a qualified teacher. Luckily, I got mine in August 2007 (the last week, phew!) so I am able to teach groups with a maximum of 4, as long as there is a level 2 teacher nearby!

Go on www.britishswimming.org, the site is pretty easy to navigate and you should find what you're looking for, although there don't seem to be many courses running this summer because I am looking to do my level 2 and can't find one near me at all! Good luck, from one lifeguard to another!