From Masters swimmer to mastering swim teaching

“Do what you love, and you’ll never work another day in your life.”

Hundreds of Masters swimmers turn their love of swimming into a career or part-time role every year. It’s easy to see why, with job satisfaction, flexible hours and career progression opportunities just a few of the enticing factors.

Abi did just that did, catching the swimming ‘bug’ before joining up with a Masters club and then taking her SEQ Level 1 Swimming Assistant (Teaching) qualification. Here’s her story…

Feeling calmed and exhilarated

“I’ve swam since I was a baby and loved club swimming as a youngster – although I never made it into the main team – and have always hunted out a pool wherever I go or live. Swimming has always been my ‘go-to’ for clearing my head and feeling both calmed and exhilarated.

“After having my first child I was determined to get her in the water as soon as possible, followed by the next two! I would take them swimming every week. I ‘taught’ them all in a very naive way with no real knowledge except my own swimming ability.

“When they entered formal lessons, they all joined at stages 3 and 4. My second is now aiming for regional times, my third for her first county times.

“The eldest two joined a club, and, after my fourth child arrived, I got the bug so joined up at Newport & District Amateur Swimming Club in Shropshire too.

Love seeing children progress

“I built my strength, fitness and technique to compete regularly up to inter counties level and did my first sprint triathlon at 40 years old. I’m now able to swim 100m fly and am training for 200m fly.

“Then the club offered to pay for me to do my SEQ Level 1 Swimming Assistant qualification so that I could start to assist with sessions. At the same time, I did my NPLQ (National Pool Lifeguard Qualification) and gained casual work at the council pools.

“I have assisted in the water and out, and am hoping to get some financial support to do my Level 2 Teaching Swimming qualification next.

“Ultimately, I want to teach adults and nervous swimmers and develop children’s techniques through the early stages of swimming club.

“I love the water and love to see children progress and enjoy the water! I’m a great believer in swimming for benefit mental as well as physical health.”

• Would you love to turn your love of swimming into a career or part-time role? Head to swimenglandqualifications.com for more information and to find your nearest courses.