26 Jun 2018
My first six months at SafelySwim
In December 2017 Evan came to me with an exciting idea. The opportunity to join him working at The Duke of York’s Pool for SafelySwim. I have been teaching for many years but had never really built up a set of Private lesson customers as I only really covered for other teachers holidays. This seemed like a daunting prospect to me but one that I was very keen to get started on.
So, at the end of January 2018 I worked my first Sunday at SafelySwim.
First Session
On that first day I had six swimmers which I was over the moon about. I found the peaceful environment at The Duke of York’s really refreshing to teach in. It’s lovely to be teaching a swimmer without having to shout over members of the public in the pool. For me it means I’m more focused, and the swimmers are more engaged and more productive. That’s what really stands out about SafelySwim, the quiet environment and the friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
On my first week I was welcomed in not only by Evan, but also by his existing swimmers and their families. Everyone is happy to ask you about not only your swimming but how your day is going. I think that this is something that makes our group lessons so successful. Particularly for younger swimmers who may feel anxious about a first lesson. The welcoming environment puts them at ease enabling them to accomplish things they didn’t think they would.
Excitement to Continue
After my first Sunday I was excited to go back and each week was able to grow alongside the company. With more and more swimmers coming onboard SafelySwim was increasing our group lessons, so I went from assisting with younger swimmers to teaching my own classes as well. Six months on I’ve expanded my base of swimmers with plenty of support from Evan and Lee, who has since come on board. I now teach swimmers ranging from ages four to adults and at every range of ability. Some adults want to improve to be able to keep up with their children, other adults need to overcome their fear of water. There are children who’ve never had the confidence to put their face in the water, and those who are wanting to tweak their technique ready to join a competitive swimming club.
Personal Enjoyment
I enjoy coming to The Duke of Yorks’ pool every Sunday to the point that it’s not something I classify as work. The enjoyment that swimmers get from it and the pride they feel in themselves when they overcome a swimming challenge is something which is indescribable.
Next 6 Months
Looking forward to the next six months is an exciting prospect for me. I can only hope that we continue to grow with the prospect of more swimmers coming through our doors and maybe even expanding to another day. This could enable more swimmers to benefit from not only an improvement in their swimming ability but the confidence and self esteem benefits which come with it.
