Swimming Teacher Position
Last updated:The specialist swimming teacher and school staff in charge of the group should be teaching from the side of the pool where the whole group can be seen and from where feedback can be given on the performance of each pupil in the group.
There may be some circumstances in which it is appropriate for the school teacher or a classroom assistant to be in the water supporting individual pupils (as an additional person). This would be the exception rather than the rule and only following a careful risk assessment by the swimming teacher. It should include potential factors such as:
- COVID-19,
- depth of water,
- pupil ability,
- use of aids,
- size of pool,
- number and age of pupils,
- lifeguarding arrangements.
When teaching or instructing non-swimmers or weak swimmers in underwater swimming or activity the specialist swimming teacher of the group should be positioned on the poolside at the point nearest to that activity, but so that they can also see the rest of the class. When an additional person is in the water assisting, they must be aware of the NOP and School Safeguarding Policy. Also, refer to the section on Safeguarding see page 66. This will not compromise ratios on the poolside.
If there is glare on the surface of the pool and the bottom of the pool cannot be clearly seen, it may be necessary to rope off the area or cover the window (indoor pool only) letting in the light. It may be that repositioning themselves will allow staff to see the bottom of the pool clearly. If this is still not possible, swimming should cease.
Accompanying school staff, who are not involved in teaching swimming under the guidance of a specialist swimming teacher, should nonetheless be positioned such that they are able to support the swimming teacher in the control of pupils and observation of their group. They should, however, ensure that they do not obstruct those working on the poolside, their position must be specified in the NOP.
Care needs to be taken that there are not excessive numbers of adults on the poolside, but that all staff accompanying the pupils swimming are alert and supportive of the qualified swimming teacher.
Important Information
The teacher or member of staff in charge of a group must ensure that, at all times, they can see all the pupils and NEVER turn their back on a group, or position themselves so that pupils are behind them.