Vision
Swim Education is dedicated to providing a high-quality experiences to assist learners in becoming successful in their journeys as swimming practitioners (i.e. teachers, coaches, lifeguards, first aid). We will be encourage them to learn, grow, and become more skilled and well-rounded.
Values:
- Family
- Swimmer Learner-centred
- Quality
About
Ray Lau is the Director of Education and Development at Active Swim, overseeing teacher/coach education and development. He is the named Key contact for the awarding bodies. Ray is a Swim England and STA Tutor, RLSS National Trainer/Assessor delivering a wide range of courses. A PhD researcher at the University of Edinburgh, Ray specialises in enhancing teacher development in swimming, sits in working parties nationally and presents internationally. Formerly a secondary school Principal, he now conducts quality assurance in school settings.
Our Workforce
Sue Parker is a specialist in the Swim England Parent and Toddler qualification and a highly experienced swimming tutor. She leads Active Swim's quality assurance programs.
Bradley Hill is a new Swim England Tutor with a strong background as a swimming teacher, coach, and secondary school PE and mathematics teacher.
Dr. Matt Newton, with a PhD in Sport and Education Studies, specializes in swimming instruction and delivers Swim England coaching qualifications. He is a former primary school teacher.
Louise Collins brings extensive experience in teaching and aerobics. She is also an RLSS Trainer Assessor for Pool Lifeguard and NRASTC.
Our Swim Teachers’ Association (STA) programmes are delivered by an additional team. Our work is supported by a skilled administration staff to ensure smooth and efficient operations.
Why Choose Us
We endeavour to provide high-quality learning experiences (recognised by Swim Education Qualifications) from the textbook written for the course to receiving a resource folder and a T-shirt for uniform on our swim teaching qualifications.
We have been graded as ‘excellent’ by RLSS UK Qualifications for our training, assessment, and internal quality assurance.
We integrate the Safeguarding in Aquatics CPD as part of the Level 2 Teacher Swimming to ensure people are Swim England certified.
In our RLSS courses, we integrate (at no extra cost) additional qualifications into the RLSS National Rescue Award for Swimming Teachers and Coaches, and the National Pool Lifeguard Qualification
Our Director is working at the cutting edge of research helping to contribute work at a national and international level, striving to improve the quality of swimming teachers and coaches in the workplace.
What do people and organisations say about us?
Active Swim celebrate major milestone as they continue positive impact
Swim England Qualifications (Monitoring April 2024)
A visit for a consultant from Swim England Qualifications monitored one of our Level 2 Swim Teaching courses. The consultant concluded:
Overall comments
- A very high-quality learning experience for learners in both theory and practical this
- Learners all reported high levels of satisfaction with the course and were fully aware of their progress and the work they still needed to complete. They all felt fully supported throughout the course and commented on how timely their work was marked and feedback received which helped them to maintain good progression on the course.
- The educator is commended for giving learners such a great learning experience while on this course.
Resources
- All learners were provided with the book as part of their course materials. In addition, the educator also has designed a paper-based portfolio with a checklist to confirm all aspects are completed. The portfolio is divided into clear sections with support information and where appropriate SEQ templates are included for earners to complete.
- The textbook is very well presented containing detailed information across the course content for learners to refer to during the teaching and also to reinforce and support their independent learning.
Observations
- A wide range of teaching methods were observed during the theory session which engaged and motivated learners so they remained focused and on task throughout the session. Previous content was frequently referred to help learners understand new concepts which helped to embed previous learning as well progress their learning.
- Pool side practical performance of learners was of a very high level. Learners were able to confidently and competently deliver swimming lessons, with participants demonstrating good teaching skills and a very good rapport with participants.
RLSS UK Qualifications (Audit of work 2024 – rated excellent)
- Overall, an excellent review.
- The paperwork seen from the ATC/P has been completed to a high standard. It is clear the ATC/P is taking note of the actions mentioned previously and completing these.
- It was a pleasure to audit the paperwork provided, and the ATC/P should continue to maintain these high standards.
RLSS UK Qualifications (Review 2025 – rated excellent)
- Overall, this was an excellent audit. Please continue to maintain these high standards. Your dedication and hard work are truly appreciated, and we are confident that you will continue to excel.
Swim England Qualifications Centre Review (May 2025)
- Safeguarding is exceptionally well implemented with Active Swim adding an additional half day (3 hours) to all SEQ Level 2 courses as a requirement for all learners to complete the Swim England Safeguarding CPD workshop as part of the course.
- Marketing information is very professional and inclusive. The information is clear and precise.
- The ATC has a clear strategic plan which involves delivering high quality training and providing their learners with qualifications that meet their strategic goals. The centre is constantly reviewing the quality of everything they do, feedback from observation was very strong and they are committed to not just maintaining a standard but exceeding it.