Everyone Active’s apprenticeship scheme for swim teachers is being rolled out across a further 42 centres in the UK after its pilot scheme proved to be a success.

The initial pilot scheme, launched in September last year and run at one centre in Plymouth and four in Bristol, was developed by Everyone Active in partnership with the Institute of Swimming (IOS) for those looking to start a career in the industry.

Qualified swimming instructor numbers are currently low in the UK and standard apprenticeship schemes don’t cater for the area. Everyone Active is now extending the scheme across its council partner areas to provide an opportunity for young people looking to join the industry through in a teaching role.

The apprenticeship programme was initially trialled at centres run by Everyone Active on behalf of Bristol and Plymouth City Councils. Apprentices who take part in and complete the 12-month programme earn qualifications as Level 2 swimming teachers with further opportunities to work within Everyone Active.

“The scheme was developed in order to nurture young talent and improve the skills deficit,” said Harvey Gosling, group training manager for Everyone Active. There is clearly talent out there but there has been a barrier to entry in the past. High quality teaching is paramount for our own swim scheme so working with the IOS to offer this programme in a further 42 centres will ensure more highly capable and well trained individuals will gain access to the industry.”