Swim England Courses
Our courses include:
SEQ Level 1 Swimming Assistant (Teaching)
SEQ Level 1 Swimming Assistant (Teaching)
Completing the SEQ Level 1 Swimming Assistant (Teaching) is an excellent way to build your experience in a swimming teaching environment before completing the SEQ Level 2 in Teaching Swimming qualification. You will learn how to support the delivery of high quality, inclusive swimming lessons.
Is this course right for me?
You now have the flexibility to choose your own pathway. The Institute of Swimming and our employer partners continue to value the SEQ Level 1 Swimming Assistant (Teaching) qualification for several reasons:
It allows you to gain experience by assisting before moving on to teaching
It is a great starting point if you have no previous experience in swimming or leisure
However, if you prefer you could jump straight to the new one step SEQ Level 2 in Teaching Swimming qualification as it does not have any prerequisites, other than being 16 years old on the start date of your chosen course.
What can I expect during my course?
This course will be delivered through a mixture of classroom workshops, practical poolside learning and assessment activities. You will have the opportunity to assist at least two 30-minute swimming lessons to gain practical experience.
What will I learn?
During the course, your tutor will be covering the following topics:
The role and responsibilities of an assistant swimming teacher
The participant journey - Fundamental Movement Skills and Core Aquatic Skills
The component parts of the strokes
The scientific principles in swimming
How to create an inclusive environment
The purpose of components of a swimming lesson
How to support participants and the Swimming Teacher
How to demonstrate effective communication skills
How to review your own performance
How will I be assessed?
You will be assessed by your tutor throughout your course against the specification criteria, please note this qualification is delivered and assessed in English. You will also need to complete assessment tasks, some of which will be in your own time. These include, but are not limited to:
17 written theoretical questions
Practical assisting of swimming lessons - for this element of the course you will be required to enter the water.
A written review record
Your tutor will provide you with deadlines for submitting assessments. All deadlines will need to be met to meet the standard of the qualification.
What happens next?
Upon successfully meeting all assessment criteria, it will take six to eight weeks for your certificate to be issued. An electronic copy of your certificate will be emailed to you.
If at the end of the course, you have not successfully met the qualification standard your tutor will provide you with feedback and guidance. You will then go through our reassessment process and have 12 months from the start date of your chosen course to complete this. Please note, if you do have to go through our reassessment process there may be additional fees associated with this.
The next step in your swimming teacher journey is to complete the SEQ Level 2 in Teaching Swimming qualification. We recommend that you gain around three months experience as an assistant swimming teacher to best prepare you for this course.
The SEQ Level 1 Swimming Assistant (Teaching) run over 4 days and each day is 9.00 - 18.00
Download course leaflet
Prices from: £395
Please contact us for details.
SEQ Level 2 Teaching Swimming
The SEQ Level 2 in Teaching Swimming qualification will develop your knowledge and abilities as a swimming teacher. This will give you the skills to independently plan and deliver high quality, inclusive swimming lessons.
Is this course right for me?
This course is ideal for anyone interested in beginning a career in swimming teaching. No previous teaching experience is required, as your tutor will guide and support you in developing the knowledge and skills needed to become a qualified swimming teacher.
You need to have turned 16 by the start date of this course.
Want to get a head start? Boost your experience with our Learn to Swim Helper course or complete the SEQ Level 1 Swimming Assistant (Teaching) qualification before you begin!
What can I expect during my course?
This course will be delivered through a mixture of classroom workshops, practical poolside learning and assessment activities, including an online multiple-choice question paper. You will have the opportunity to participate in delivery of swimming lessons to gain practical experience alongside other practical opportunities during the course.
What will I learn?
During the course, your tutor will be covering the following units:
Unit 1: How to deliver swimming lessons within a safe environment
Unit 2: Understand the knowledge required for teaching swimming
Unit 3: The role of a Swimming Teacher
Unit 4: Plan swimming lessons
Unit 5: Deliver & evaluate swimming lessons
How will I be assessed?
Your assessment takes place in two parts. Throughout the course, your tutor will set assessment tasks for you to complete. You will then complete an online multiple-choice question paper to demonstrate your understanding of the theoretical aspects of the course. To view the course specification please select here.
On course assessment:
Six written lessons plans, with three being assessed by your tutor
One scheme of work
Practical delivery of at least six 30-minute swimming lessons
A written self evaluation
A written action plan
Your tutor will provide you with deadlines for submitting assessments and all deadlines will need to be met to meet the standard of the qualification. Some of the assessment tasks will need to be completed in your own time and prior to the delivery of your lessons on course.
Online multiple-choice question paper:
At the beginning of the course, you will be invited to create an account on SEQ’s secure online portal
Once started, you will have one hour to complete all elements of the exam* and this must be completed in one sitting
To complete the exam, you will need access to a laptop or desktop device with a webcam; it cannot be completed on a mobile device
If the exam is not completed within seven days of the end of your course, a fee will be payable to SEQ to reopen the assessment
* Please note this qualification is delivered and assessed in English. Reasonable adjustments are available to ensure accessibility and fairness for learners with additional needs. To discuss this with us further please contact us on iosqualityteam@swimming.org.
What happens next?
Upon successfully meeting all assessment criteria, it will take six to eight weeks for your certificate to be issued. An electronic copy of your certificate will be emailed to you.
If at the end of the course, you have not successfully met the qualification standard you will be provided with feedback and guidance on the reassessment process. You have 12 months from the start date of your chosen course to complete any remaining or outstanding elements of the qualification.
For the on course assessment you will need to liaise with the Institute of Swimming about the next steps. Please note, if you do have to go through the reassessment process there may be additional fees associated with this.
For the multiple-choice exam, learners who do not achieve a pass may sit a resit using an alternative version of the assessment. The first resit is free of charge; however, if a second resit is required, additional fees will apply.
The SEQ Level 2 Teaching Swimming courses run over 8 days and each day is 9.00 - 18.00.
Download course leaflet
Prices from: £695
SEQ Level 1 Swimming Assistant (Teaching) & SEQ Level 2 Teaching Swimming
This is a unique opportunity to gain both the SEQ Level 1 and Level 2 qualifications during the same period. Saving money and time of work or from your studies.
The SEQ Level 2 Qualification is the industry standard for those who wish to teach unsupervised and is essential for seeking employment as a swimming teacher. Once qualified, the holder will be able to teach groups of participants of a range of abilities utilising the Swim Englands National Curriculum or Learn to Swm Pathway, (or equivalent).
Learners must past the first section of the SEQ Level 1 Swimming Assistant course before completing the remaining Level 2 sections. These include, Theoretical questions, Observation and Review record.
To be awarded SEQ level 2 Teaching Swimming Qualification. All learning outcomes and assessment requirements must be achieved.
Assessment is made up of a number of activities that are set by Swim England Qualifications and include: Theoretical Questions, Overviews, Lesson plans, Observation, Self-Evaluation and Professional Development Plan.
The SEQ Teachers courses run over 9 days and each day is 9.00 - 18.00.
For more information, please download the course information for both courses.
Download course leaflet
Prices from: £950
SEQ Level 2 teaching Swimming to Babies & Toddlers Qualification
Awarded by Swim England, this qualification provides learners with the skills to teach within Learn to Swim (Pre Fundamentals) environment. Typically to children 0-4 years old with support from an adult in the water.
The objective of this qualification is to provide the learner with a basic understanding of the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities to be an effective teacher in the Learn to Swim environment (pre fundamentals)
Once qualified the holder will be able to specialise in early years aquatic pre fundamentals in an appropriate learn to swim environment.
This qualification is for those learners who are seeking career progression within their area of work. Or would like to specialise in Learn to Swim to children 0-4 years old with support from an adult in the water.
The SEQ Level 2 Teaching Swimming to Babies and Toddlers qualification is for individuals that want to progress from their:
• SEQ Level 1 Swimming Assistant (Teaching) qualification, or
• SEQ Level 2 Teaching Swimming qualification
Assessment is made up of a number of activities that are set by Swim England Qualifications and include. Theoretical Questions, Overviews, Lesson plans, Observation record, Self-Evaluation and Professional Development Plan.
Download course leaflet
Prices from: £345
Please contact us for details.
Recognised Prior Learning (RPL)
Qualification: SEQ Level 1 Swimming Assistant (Teaching) or SEQ Level 2 Teaching Swimming
RPL is a method of assessment that considers whether a learner can demonstrate that they can meet the assessment requirements through knowledge, understanding or skills they already posses and do not need to develop through a course of learning.
We offer RPL for those individuals who have experience of swimming teaching with Swim England learn to swim pathway (LTSP) or equivalent.
The process assesses you against the current Swim England qualifications taking into account previous qualifications and teaching/coaching experience. It is ideal for individuals who have experience of teaching or coaching.
If you have swimming teaching experience? Or currently hold a Swim England qualification or equivalent? Then process could be for you.
If you have no or limited teaching/coaching experience then you are recommended to complete a full course face to face.
Learners must be 16 years and above to RPL for Level 1
Learners must be 16 years and above to RPL for Level 1 or Level 2 and Combined courses
Swim England Level 1 Swimming Assistant (Teaching) £395
Swim England Level 2 Teaching Swimming £695
The cost of doing both as RPL are £950
How long will it take to complete?
It depends on a number of factors such as your level of knowledge and experience, quality of evidence submitted to the assessor, you and assessor availability. You could expect the process to take around 4 - 12 weeks depending on your availability to complete the work, with certification around 4 - weeks later.
For more information please contact us through the website and we will be happy to help answer any questions you might have.
Please contact us for details.
National Rescue Award for Swimming Teachers & Coaches - Light
Qualification: National Rescue Award for Swimming Teachers and Coaches LIGHT (NRASTC LIGHT)
NRASTC LIGHT is a supervision and rescue qualification for teachers working on the poolside or in the water during programmed activities, such as a swimming lesson when Lifeguard or First Aid backup is available to respond quickly in the event of emergency.
It is suitable for teachers working in a wide range of swimming pools, including pools where the water is deeper than the teacher’s standing depth.
If Lifeguard or First Aid backup is not available the standard NRASTC should be used.
The NRASTC course is a one day course from 9.00 - 16.00 with the qualification lasting for two years.
Please contact us for details.
National Rescue Award for Swimming Teachers & Coaches - Renewal
Qualification: NRASTC - Renewals (must be in date)
The National Rescue Award for Swimming Teachers & Coaches course is considered to be a suitable level of expertise for anyone who teaches or coaches a programmed aquatic activity. Current Health and Safety guidelines put the responsibility for life guarding onto the authority in charge of the pool, however teachers and coaches are strongly advised to hold this certificate and keep it up to date. The NRASTC qualification also counts as CPD points towards an ASA/UKCC Teacher/Coach license.
The NRASTC course is a one day course from 9.00 - 17.00 with the qualification lasting for two years and First Aid lasting 3 years.
If you would like to gain the additional Emergency First Aid At Work (QCF) Level 2 Award and AED bolt on then please contact us for more details.
Download course leaflet
Prices from: £105
Please contact us for details.
National Rescue Award for Swimming Teachers & Coaches - New Candidate
Qualification: NRASTC, First Aid & AED New candidates and Renewals wishing to gain additional qualifications
The National Rescue Award for Swimming Teachers & Coaches course is considered to be a suitable level of expertise for anyone who teaches or coaches a programmed aquatic activity. Current Health and Safety guidelines put the responsibility for life guarding onto the authority in charge of the pool, however teachers and coaches are strongly advised to hold this certificate and keep it up to date. The NRASTC qualification also counts as CPD points towards an ASA/UKCC Teacher/Coach license.
The NRASTC course is a Two day course from 9.00 - 17.00 with the qualification lasting for two years and First Aid lasting 3 years.
If you would like to gain the additional Emergency First Aid At Work (QCF) Level 2 Award and AED bolt on then please contact us for more details.
When Emergency First Aid at Work and AED training are integrated with this course the training hours are extended as well as an additional charge for these qualifications.
Download course leaflet
Prices from: £205
Please contact us for details.
Aquatic Therapy Shallow Pool Rescue Award (ATSPRA)
Qualification: ATSPRA
Aquatic Therapy Shallow Pool Rescue Award (ATSPRA)
The ATSPRA is a supervision and rescue qualification for therapists, teachers and support staff working on the poolside or in the water during activities such as, aquatic therapy or therapeutic exercise/play. The qualification is suitable for use in shallow pools where the rescuer will not be required to swim to perform a rescue, with water no deeper than the rescuers chest depth.
The ATSPRA course is a one day course from 9.00 - 17.00 with the qualification lasting for two years.
If you would like to gain the additional Emergency First Aid At Work (QCF) Level 2 Award and AED bolt on then please contact us for more details.
When Emergency First Aid at Work and AED training are integrated with this course the training hours are extended as well as an additional charge for these qualifications.
Please contact us for details.