Inspirational Scots swim teacher with Down's Syndrome helps over 50 children a week

A swimming teacher with Down’s Syndrome has been praised for her commitment and passion for the role – as she teaches more than 50 children per week.

Cerys McCrindle, 22, began swimming at 11 years old after completing a course of lessons from Learn to Swim.

She quickly discovered her passion for the sport and now swims competitively with Down Syndrome Swimming Great Britain, competing in races across the world.

Her love of swimming also led her to become a role model at swimming pools across South Ayrshire, becoming a swim teacher for children ages eight and up.

Cerys teaches five classes a week with Learn to Swim, made up of around 50 children of various swimming ability groups with the aim of creating ‘Generation Swim’ – a generation of safe and competent swimmers.

“I love swimming – I always have,” said Cerys, of Prestwick, South Ayrshire, Scotland.

“I’ve been able to travel all over the world through my competitions.

Cerys has been able to travel all over the world through her competitions.

“Being a swim teacher is great, I get to teach kids how to be safe in the water, as well as creating lesson plans.

“I became a teacher to pass on my knowledge and help other people feel confident in the water.

“Most importantly, I want those I’m teaching to feel like they can just be themselves.

“Teaching is so much fun and so rewarding, I would encourage anyone to get involved.”

The Learn to Swim National Framework – a partnership between Scottish Swimming and Scottish Water which is delivered by 38 aquatic providers across Scotland in more than 160 pools – is shining a light on the inspiring teachers involved in teaching the next generation of youngsters to swim.

Organisers have launched a nationwide drive to recruit a new network of poolside teachers, to help children of all ages and abilities to become more confident, safer and competent swimmers.

The programme is open to everyone regardless of disability or skills levels, with the partnership committed to creating a supportive environment for all to learn and teach swimming.

Euan Lowe, CEO of Scottish Swimming, said: “Teaching others to swim is one of the most fulfilling careers, imparting a critical life skill.

Cerys became a teacher to ‘pass on her knowledge’ to others.

“It’s inspiring to see instructors like Cerys share their passion while providing essential lessons.

“For any jobseeker wanting meaningful work – from students seeking part-time roles to senior career changers – swimming instruction presents tremendous opportunity.

“With positions nationwide, partners have openings for all backgrounds and ambitions.”

Brian Lironi, Director of Corporate Affairs with Scottish Water, said: “Cerys, and all the other swim teachers across Scotland, are a testament to the passion for developing the next generation of safe and competent swimmers – these enthusiastic, dedicated teachers delivering these lessons play such an important role in encouraging and supporting children of all ages and abilities to learn and enjoy swimming in a safe way.

“Becoming a swim teacher is an amazing opportunity for people to make a difference and be part of creating a meaningful legacy for Scotland to help children be safe in and around water.”

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