The Register of Aquatic Professionals (RAPs) has officially been launched into its pilot phase.

Owned and operated by SkillsActive, the scheme has been developed in partnership with employers and looks to provide verification that those working in the sector are fully qualified to perform their roles.

It will also bring together three awarding organisations - Amateur Swimming Association (ASA), Swimming Teachers Association (STA) and Royal Life Saving Society (RLSS) - for the first time to work toward the development of one single qualification structure for each aquatic role.

It is hoped that increased professionalism and standards will lead to increased participation in swimming in Britain, benefitting both the industry and the sport.

The four-month pilot period will initially cover England, with plans to roll the scheme out across the UK. Following the pilot, RAPs will formally launch to the aquatic industry in the summer.

Ian Taylor, CEO of Skills Active who operate RAPs, said: "RAPs heralds a new and exciting development for the aquatic industry.

"This significant step will introduce a new fit for purpose sector qualification framework, which has a single qualification structure for each aquatic job role.

"It will give clarity and consistency to employers for the first time in regards to qualifications."