NSW Sport and Recreation - Swimsafe Learn to Swim Royal Life Saving Society - Swim and Survive web site The Royal Life Saving Society of Australia Austswim NSW web site Water Safety Practice Note (PDF-external link) This information can be downloaded in other languages: Arabic Chinese English Korean Macedonian Turkish Vietnamese Need a copy of Acrobat Reader?

Water familiarisation classes build confidence and introduce children to basic water safety.

Learning to swim is a vital skill for all ages, especially children.

Ensuring your child receives quality teaching is important – because learning to swim is a skill for life. Having your child ‘Learn to Swim’ by a qualified teacher will ensure they are provided with appropriate skills.

However water familiarisation is no substitute for adult supervision. Remember, always keep watch when children are in and around water.

Swimming Instructor Training - frequently asked questions

Q: How do I become a swimming instructor?
You need to complete a recognised course to be accredited as a swimming instructor. This involves the completion of a core theory course (1 day course or CD ROM) and an elective course (2 day course). Upon completion of this you must sit an exam/or complete an assignment, complete a nominal 20 hours of teaching experience and have an assessment of your teaching competence via a half hour lesson with at least 4 children in the lesson. In addition, swimming instructors must complete a Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation certificate to obtain their swimming instructor certificate.

More information can be obtained from AUSTSWIM by calling 1300 885 666

Q: Are there any requirements to begin swimming instructor training?
To enrol in a course you must be 16 years of age or older. To be issued with your AUSTSWIM Swimming Instructor certificate you must be at least 17 years of age. You need a reasonable level of fitness and swimming ability. No other certifications are required prior to commencement of swimming instructor training.

Q: Is it important for my children to be taught by qualified instructors?
The AUSTSWIM qualification gives you peace of mind that your instructor has done specific teacher training from a recognised provider. This will assist in ensuring that they are following recognised learning strategies based upon your child's age and development.

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