Improving training techniques at South West PD

It wasn’t your average swimming class at the Geographe Leisure Centre over the weekend, with a group of 25 Aquatic Trainers and Swim Teachers getting together for an afternoon of professional development.

Facilitated by the Royal Life Saving WA Education Team, staff from head office travelled to Busselton to join Trainer/Assessors Alicia Coppin and Cathie Calleja to deliver the first combined PD session for both our swim teacher and aquatic trainer network. 

The Swim Teacher portion of the training focused on dry drills and must-see criteria, understanding the importance of a streamlined body position, using the right terminology when addressing the class and different types of students, and finished with teaching tips for butterfly and breaststroke which participants enjoyed the most.

Participants also completed Aquatic Rescue training, as well as Bronze Medallion components such as contact tows, recover and resuscitate, and spinals.

Cathie and Alicia’s extensive knowledge and passion were well appreciated by the group, the duo receiving an abundance of positive feedback and compliments after the course.

“It was a very engaged group,” said Alicia. “The variety of ages and level of experiences made it more fun and interactive. I loved the continuous conversation and practising.”

Geographe Leisure Centre’s Swim School Team Leader, Jodi Kelso, said the session was very beneficial.

“We loved having Royal Life Saving WA down at the Geographe Leisure Centre,” she said. “It was fun being around people who love what we do, and we hope there will be another opportunity to welcome you again soon.”

After a well-deserved break, the group headed to the Geographe Yacht Club for dinner and drinks, providing an opportunity for everyone to get to know each other and have some fun out of the water.

Member Engagement Manager, Francesca Amoroso, said it was the first time the team have organised a session for both swim teachers and aquatic trainers and it was a great success.

“Given the success of this first combined PD, we can ensure there will be plenty of other opportunities organised by Royal Life Saving, with the next one already happening at Swan Active Beechboro on 13th May,” she said.

“These face-to-face events are a great way to show support to our teachers and trainers and make sure they are equipped with the best skills to deliver to their students.”