The STA Conference 2025 proved to be the organisation’s most ambitious event to date, bringing together the aquatics community for two packed days of professional development, discussion, and collaboration.

Held on the 17th and 18th of October at the Radisson Blu, East Midlands Airport, this year’s theme – Making Waves: Connect • Learn • Lead – set the tone for a vibrant programme of more than 40 sessions focused on learning, leadership, and innovation across the sector.

Delegates travelled from across the UK and overseas, representing teachers, tutors, operators, and industry partners, all united by a shared commitment to raising standards in aquatics.

The conference opened with an inspiring keynote from Olympic champion Rebecca Adlington OBE, who spoke passionately about opportunity, access, and the lasting influence of great teaching. Her address captured the spirit of the weekend – one that combined high-level professional insight with a genuine sense of community and shared purpose.

Among the headline sessions, Wayne Goldsmith, the internationally recognised performance coach, explored the impact of microlearning in developing teaching and coaching excellence. ukactive’s Tim Mathias followed with a session on measuring and strengthening equality, diversity, and inclusion through the organisation’s EDI Score Toolkit. Andrew Clark, Head of Sport and Aquatics at GLL, later joined STA CEO Dave Candler to discuss the collective effort needed to secure the future of school swimming.

Workforce development was another strong theme. Kelly Gaffney, Head of People at swim!, shared insights from piloting STA’s new People Developer course, emphasising the importance of supporting staff wellbeing, engagement, and career growth. In the same spirit of innovation, Good Boost showcased its award-winning rehabilitation technology, demonstrating how aquatic exercise can transform accessibility and wellbeing for participants of all abilities.

Throughout the two days, delegates took part in a varied schedule of seminars and workshops – both in and out of the pool – covering topics from lifesaving and first aid to pool plant operations and business management. Subjects such as sustainability, digital transformation, and building your own swim pool were explored alongside practical sessions on teaching methods and professional development – in addition to what’s new in the world of TikTok.

Inclusion and accessibility remained central themes, with speakers sharing strategies on cultural competence, supporting behavioural needs, and adapting lessons to meet the requirements of all learners.

The exhibitor area offered a lively showcase of new products, services, and technologies, giving delegates valuable opportunities to connect with suppliers, STA representatives, and fellow professionals from across the industry.

Another highlight was the 2025 Aquatic Excellence Awards, which recognised individuals and organisations making a lasting difference in swimming, lifesaving, and water safety. The awards once again underscored the passion and professionalism that define the #STAFamily.

This year’s event also saw the official unveiling of STA’s new Level 2 Swimming Teacher Qualification, set to launch in 2026. Developed in consultation with members, swim schools, and employers nationwide, the qualification represents a major step forward – designed to shape the future of swimming teacher education while simplifying how courses are delivered and managed.

Reflecting on the weekend, STA CEO Dave Candler said: “The energy, ideas, and generosity of everyone involved – from speakers and exhibitors to tutors, teachers, ATCs, and the STA team – reminded us why our community is so special. Making Waves captured that balance of professional insight and enjoyment; it was a weekend full of learning, laughter, and collaboration.”

With an engaging programme, hands-on learning, and a spirit of shared ambition, STA Conference 2025 demonstrated a sector united in progress – and confident about the future of aquatics.