The QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Swim School Health and Safety is a nationally recognised qualification tailored for individuals responsible for managing or delivering swimming programmes in educational, leisure, or private swim school settings. With increasing expectations around safeguarding, regulatory compliance, and operational safety, this diploma equips professionals with the essential knowledge and practical tools to ensure a safe learning environment for all participants.
This Level 3 diploma has been designed specifically for swim school owners, coordinators, instructors, and aquatic managers who have a duty of care over learners, especially children and vulnerable individuals. It provides a structured approach to understanding risk management, emergency planning, safeguarding policies, facility safety, and instructor responsibilities.
Assessment is carried out through a combination of written assignments, scenario-based evaluations, and reflective learning. Delivery methods may vary depending on the training provider, with options for blended, online, or in-person formats. Practical activities are aligned with real swim school operations, enabling learners to apply knowledge directly in their professional environment.
The QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Swim School Health and Safety is an essential qualification for anyone involved in running or delivering swimming education. It ensures that swim schools operate in a safe, compliant, and professional manner—protecting both staff and learners. For those looking to build a reputable and responsible swimming programme, this qualification provides the foundation for long-term success.
Course Contents of QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Swim School Health and Safety:
The QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Swim School Health and Safety, offers 60 Credits, requiring a Total Qualification Time (TQT) of 300 hours, including 210 Guided Learning Hours (GLH).
| Unit Ref# | Unit Title | Credit | GLH | TQT |
| QC26004-1 | Health and Safety Legislation in Swim School Operations | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC26004-2 | Risk Assessment and Control Measures in Aquatic Learning Environments | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC26004-3 | Emergency Planning and Incident Response in Swim Schools | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC26004-4 | Safeguarding and Child Protection in Aquatic Education | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC26004-5 | Hygiene, Supervision, and Participant Safety in Swimming Lessons | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC26004-6 | Communication, Record Keeping, and Policy Implementation | 10 | 35 | 50 |
Entry Requirements for the QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Swim School Health and Safety:
To enroll in the QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Swim School Health and Safety, following are requirement:
Minimum Age
- Applicants must be 18 years of age or older at the time of enrolment.
Educational Background
- A minimum of a Level 2 qualification (or equivalent) in a related area such as swim instruction, leisure operations, or childcare is recommended.
- Applicants without formal qualifications may still be accepted based on relevant industry experience and a provider-led initial assessment.
Work Experience (Recommended)
- Candidates should ideally have prior experience working in a swim school, aquatic centre, or educational setting, especially in roles related to supervision, instruction, or safety.
- Experience in swim teaching, lifeguarding, or safeguarding roles will support successful participation.
Language Proficiency
- Learners must have a good command of English to:
- Understand and apply health and safety legislation
- Complete written assignments and professional reflections
- Communicate effectively with colleagues, learners, and parents
- For non-native English speakers, a minimum of CEFR Level B2 or an IELTS score of 5.5 (or equivalent) is recommended.
Learning Outcomes of QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Swim School Health and Safety:
Health and Safety Legislation in Swim School Operations
- Identify key UK health and safety legislation relevant to swim schools
- Understand the legal duties of swim school operators, instructors, and staff
- Apply health and safety policies to everyday operations in aquatic settings
- Monitor compliance and implement improvements where necessary
- Promote a culture of safety and accountability within the swim school
Risk Assessment and Control Measures in Aquatic Learning Environments
- Understand the principles and purpose of risk assessment in swim schools
- Identify potential hazards in aquatic learning environments
- Evaluate risk and determine appropriate control measures
- Carry out and document effective risk assessments
- Review and update assessments to reflect operational changes
Emergency Planning and Incident Response in Swim Schools
- Recognise different types of emergencies that may occur in a swim school
- Develop emergency action plans tailored to specific aquatic risks
- Assign roles and responsibilities to staff in emergency situations
- Respond effectively to incidents and support post-incident reporting
- Ensure all staff are trained and confident in emergency protocols
Safeguarding and Child Protection in Aquatic Education
- Understand the principles of safeguarding and child protection legislation
- Recognise signs and symptoms of abuse, neglect, and inappropriate behaviour
- Follow correct procedures for reporting and escalating safeguarding concerns
- Maintain professional boundaries and protect the welfare of all participants
- Contribute to a safe and supportive learning environment for children and vulnerable individuals
Hygiene, Supervision, and Participant Safety in Swimming Lessons
- Implement hygiene standards for pool areas, equipment, and changing rooms
- Apply safe supervision practices based on lesson type, age group, and ratios
- Identify and address participant-specific safety needs and medical considerations
- Promote positive behaviour and responsible conduct during lessons
- Minimise the risk of injury, illness, or incident during instructional sessions
Communication, Record Keeping, and Policy Implementation
- Communicate clearly with parents, staff, and external authorities regarding safety matters
- Maintain accurate records of incidents, training, risk assessments, and safeguarding reports
- Understand the role of documentation in legal compliance and quality assurance
- Implement and review swim school policies in line with regulatory guidance
- Foster a professional and transparent approach to swim school operations
The Swim School Health and Safety – Level 3 Diploma is designed for individuals working within or managing swimming instruction environments who are responsible for ensuring the safety, welfare, and protection of participants and staff.
This course is particularly suited for:
- Swim school owners and operators seeking to formalise their knowledge of health and safety practices
- Swimming instructors and coaches with responsibility for safeguarding and participant welfare
- Aquatic managers and coordinators overseeing the delivery of swimming programmes in public or private facilities
- Leisure centre staff and poolside supervisors involved in lesson delivery, supervision, or risk management
- Teachers and teaching assistants delivering swimming as part of school-based physical education
- Lifeguards or safety personnel supporting swim school operations
- Those aspiring to move into leadership or compliance roles within aquatic education
Whether you are overseeing a small swim school, working within a larger leisure facility, or managing community-based aquatic programmes, this qualification provides the knowledge and skills necessary to maintain a safe, compliant, and professional learning environment.ent position or aspiring to take the next step in your career, this qualification equips you with the expertise to lead safe, efficient, and high-performing aquatic facilities.