Students make a splash with Swim@CHS Partnership
CHS’s thriving partnership with Swim, now in it’s second year, continues to provide invaluable opportunities for local children, as well as Waconians. Beyond the daily learn to swim programme for over a thousand 3-11 year olds, a number of CHS students have benefited from the collab, becoming Level 2 swimming instructors and lifeguards.
The opportunity not only develops essential life skills such as leadership and communication for students, but also offers valuable career opportunities, both locally and at Swim’s rapidly expanding centres across the UK.
Emily, Upper Sixth Waconian and Swimming Instructor said: “The training was about 2 months in total. The course was very interesting and a lot of fun, it was nice to work with people who were at the same point training wise, so we could talk about our strengths, worries, and new things that cropped up.
“I love my job as a swimming instructor. It is such a fulfilling job, and is really quite wholesome (especially when children you have only covered lessons for a couple of times come up to say hi!) I have learnt a lot of invaluable skills while teaching, skills I think will largely enhance my abilities in any job I have in the future.
“Skills like learning to communicate with people, especially with clientele being such a variety; from a child who’s never swam before and doesn’t even understand the idea of lying on their tummies in the water, to parents with queries and questions. It’s allowed me to become more confident in myself and my abilities. Finally, it has taught me to be adaptable and also level headed when things don’t go to plan. Though I try to plan all my lessons, working with children it doesn’t always go the way I expected. Learning to vary my lessons, stand on my own two feet, working independently, making quick decisions to move lessons a long, or redirect focus! I would definitely recommend this to anyone who asked me!”
The partnership is further enhanced by the involvement of Olympians Rebecca Adlington and Steve Parry, who support the program through talks and water safety assemblies.
“Partnering with Cheadle Hulme School has been a fantastic opportunity to reach more children in the local community and create a deeper impact by providing them with essential swimming skills in a fun, supportive environment.”
Swim@CHS is expanding, offering flexible, well-paid opportunities for our students. For those interested in joining them, earning potential ranges from £14 to £17 per hour.
Find out more here.
