Skip to main content

Meet Grace, AustSwim 2023 state and national best new teacher

venueswest swim instructor smiling in front of lane pool

Our Swim School Team have put together a few basic tips you and your child might find helpful as they progress their journey to becoming a competent swimmer.

Facilitate building trust

Children often do not know their instructor and trust is a huge part of teaching swimming. Before each lesson and in between lessons talk about the instructor using their name so the children are mentally prepared and make a big display of yourself meeting the instructor so that the children can see you trust them as well.

 

Not sure about wearing goggles

Some children really don’t like putting their googles on and using them, especially the little ones. A good tip is to let them play with them at home in the shower and bath.

Get that Streamline

The best position for moving through water is a straight line along the surface of the pool. For some kids this is a challenge but practice pretending to be an arrow or a rocket ship so that fingers part the water and keep head in line with body. 

Streamline position  - We do this with all levels starting with our toddlers by doing motor boats with them in the water. Arms stretched out in front or holding a board. Kicking legs with face in the water blowing bubbles to make motorboat noises. 

Pull - Breathe - Kick - Glide

Breaststroke can be tricky! Fix your breaststroke timing by getting the 'pull, breathe, kick, glide' sequence just right for a smooth and efficient swimming stroke.

  1. Pull with arms
  2. Breathe in
  3. Kick with legs 
  4. Glide for 3 seconds

Keep it positive 

Always talk about the positive things a child can do while swimming and only focus on that. It will build the child’s confidence, it feels good and distracts them from the things they do not like to do. 

Our team of AustSwim certified instructors, includes Grace, AustSwim's 2023 State and National Best New Teacher. We are very proud of Grace's achievement and know she will give your child the best support needed to build their confidence and capability in the water.

Learn more about Grace, our inspirational young instructor.

Q: How long have you been a swim instructor at HBF Stadium?

I have worked with Swim School for just over 12 months now.  

Q: What day and ages do you teach?

I currently teach on Tuesdays, working with new swimmers in the preschool and junior primary school age groups. I have also taught all different levels ranging from toddlers up to squads, and adults.

Q: What are your certifications/qualifications?

  • Bronze Medallion
  • AUSTSWIM( Teacher of Swimming and Water Safety)
  • AUSTSWIM 2023 State and National Best New Teacher

Q: What is the best part about teaching at HBF Stadium?

I love all aspects of swimming but especially passing on my love for swimming and water safety and ensuring all the kids and adults are reaching their goals big and small. 

Q: Why do you think it is important for everyone to become a competent swimmer?

Being in a country that is surrounded by water I think that water safety and awareness for Children and Adults is crucial. 

Q: Do you have a number one swimming or teaching experience?

Winning AUSTSWIM 2023 State and National Best New Teacher. This is such a big achievement for me because the standard of instructors in the industry is so high and to be recognised for my contribution is a great reward.  

Q: What is something people may not know about you?

I am a coach with my local surf club for the Starfish Nippers Program. The Starfish Nippers program caters for children and young adults ranging from 6 years and above with a disability – including autism, attention deficit disorder, Down’s syndrome, Asperger’s Syndrome, physical and intellectual disabilities and learning difficulties. 

Q: Tell us about your favourite activities or hobbies that you like to do for fun.

In my free time I am normally in the pool training I love completing in open water swims. Over the last few years I have taken part in swims such as the Busselton Jetty Swim and The Rottnest Channel Swim. 

As well as our knowledgeable, experienced and friendly instructors like Grace, at HBF Stadium we offer classes with low ratios to ensure maximised learning. Swimming classes at HBF Stadium are continuous with a six week break in the December/January school holidays when our Summer Holiday Swim takes off, so kids are consistently progressing their skills. To find out more about what makes our classes the best swimming lessons Claremont has to offer click here.