Looking for a Career That Matters?
Train to be a Swimming Teacher!

Becoming a swimming teacher is a fantastic career path for those who are looking for a rewarding, active and challenging role.

With flexible teaching hours to fit around your lifestyle, you’ll enjoy the satisfaction of a work-life balance whilst teaching an incredible and important life skill.

Countless opportunities for employment are available with private swim schools and public leisure centres who are on the search for qualified, motivated and inspiring swimming teachers.

Will you be next?

Where Do I Start?

Fantastic news—you don’t need any previous experience or formal qualifications prior to getting started.

You will need to gain a swimming teaching qualification with STA to get paid employment.

Did you know? All STA qualifications sit at Level 2 or above on the national framework. This means you don’t need to train as an assistant first with STA. Upon successful completion of the STA Level 2 Swimming Teacher Qualification, you will be qualified to teach the full learn-to-swim pathway.

STA Level 2 Swimming Teacher Qualification

Developed in line with CIMSPA’s updated Professional Standard across the full learn-to-swim pathway, this qualification brings together everything teachers need to deliver safe, high-quality, inclusive lessons.

The enhanced curriculum covers:

  • Key strokes
  • Aquatic skills
  • Survival and rescue techniques
  • Water safety

This ensures teachers are confident in adapting lessons for all ages and abilities. With a strong emphasis on practical, work-ready skills, learners gain extensive hands-on experience and leave ready to teach on poolside straight away.

Recognising that learning does not stop once qualified, STA has also built in ongoing support. Every learner receives a package of free CPDs and 12 months of STA membership, providing structured development opportunities as they begin their teaching journey.

Benefits of STA’s Qualifications

  • Become a fully qualified swimming teacher with STA’s level 2 qualification(s)
  • Internationally recognised, allowing you to travel with your career
  • Meets CIMSPA’s employer-led Swimming Teacher Professional Standard
  • Blended and face-to-face training options at affordable prices
  • Support beyond qualification
  • STA membership included for 12 months, which includes Public Liability Insurance (up to ÂŁ10 million) and Professional Indemnity Insurance (up to ÂŁ1 million, provided by Allianz)
  • No prior experience or qualifications required

Learn More

How Much Does It Cost for the Qualifications?

As all courses are organised and delivered through independent approved training centres, they will offer them at varying prices.

When you find a course that suits you, you can contact the approved training centre directly for more information.

What’s Next Once I’m Qualified?

Find Employment

Find a career in leisure with our dedicated job search, Jobs in Leisure. Search for a career opportunity in your chosen postcode, across the country and internationally.

Find a Swimming Teaching Job

Maintain Your Skills

Maintain Your Skills

As a qualified swimming teacher, you’ll need to maintain occupational competency by undertaking regular continuing professional development (CPD).

This can be achieved through face-to-face seminars, online learning or evidence of practical teaching hours.

Learn More About CPD

Become a Specialised Swimming Teacher

Whether you’re new to swimming teaching or looking to extend your skill set, why not consider specialised qualifications?

Baby and Pre-School Award

Are you passionate about giving babies the best and most enjoyable experience in water? If you’d like to set the skills and foundation of a baby’s swimming journey and help them dip their toes into the pool, this qualification is for you.

Learn More

People with Disabilities

Swimming for people with disabilities is extremely rewarding and teaching is equally satisfying. This course is for those who would like to help someone gain water confidence and teach them essential swimming and movement skills through play in a supportive environment.

Learn More

Have an Additional Question Before You Get Started?

Still Have a Question?

We’re available to provide any guidance you might need on getting your swimming teaching career started—please contact us if you have any additional questions.