New data from a survey conducted by the Institute of Swimming (IOS), the leading provider of Swim England qualifications, highlights swimming teaching as an exceptionally fulfilling career, delivering high levels of job satisfaction.
In the survey of IOS members a remarkable 99% of swimming teachers reported their job makes them happy. The statistic is supported by other standout results that also demonstrate the positive impact of being a swimming teacher, with 90% making friends with colleagues and 81% reporting their job helped with their overall wellbeing.
Rebecca Cox, Managing Director, Institute of Swimming, says: “We’re so pleased our swimming teachers are happy and that their roles bring them genuine joy. These findings tell us that swimming teaching might be among the happiest jobs in England! The excellent job satisfaction is truly across the board, reported consistently by teachers all over the country, spanning every age group from 16 to retirement and beyond, and found equally among both men and women.
“The findings present a powerful case to attract and retain new talent. The reported happiness level among our swimming teachers is significant, showing that it is possible to find a role that not only offers crucial flexibility and competitive work but also delivers genuine fulfilment. Crucially for the sector, a happy and fulfilled teacher helps to build a long-term sustainable workforce.”
When swimming teacher, Laura, 56, was asked in the survey if teaching in swimming makes her happy, she responded: “How long have you got? It’s the best thing ever.”
Diagnosed with incurable blood cancer earlier this year, Laura has learnt that happiness isn’t found in possessions, but in purpose. She continues: “When I’m at the pool, I forget everything. Being a swimming teacher makes me so happy. I’d do it for free! I want my students to remember I taught them to become their best selves. To flourish despite fear. To live fully, just as I do with my diagnosis. Life isn’t meant to be survived. It’s meant to be lived. I’ve worked in lots of different sectors, I’ve earnt a lot of money and had status, but I can see that none of that actually matters. My role of teaching children and adults to swim with confidence means infinitely more. Swimming has given me both purpose and community.”
The survey also discovered that a sense of wellbeing is particularly acute among younger age groups, with 87% of 16–18-year-olds and 90% of 19–25-year-olds reporting that teaching has helped with their overall wellbeing, including their self-esteem, mental health and confidence, highlighting the role of swimming teaching as an ideal first-career opportunity.
Being a swimming teacher as a young person also provides transferable skills, vital for future success. According to the survey, 87% of 16–18-year-olds and 82% of 19–25-year-olds felt teaching swimming had helped them feel more confident when applying for other job opportunities or further educational studies.
“This is about more than just a job,” Cox continues. “For younger generations who may lack available work experience or self-confidence, becoming a swimming teacher is clearly a high-value stepping stone that prepares them for any future career path.”
The survey results also showcase the quality of the IOS training methods, with 95% reporting their tutor was helpful and 85% noting a smaller classroom size was better for learning compared to their school education.
This effective training translates directly into job readiness and rapid employment; only 2% of respondents said they were not ready to immediately start teaching upon qualifying, and more than three quarters, 76%, said they found work immediately after completing their qualifications.
Cox concludes: “Our commitment through high-quality training, like the new SEQ Level 2 in Teaching Swimming qualification launching in January, is to ensure the path into this happy career is as accessible, inclusive and efficient as possible, ensuring the talent pipeline remains strong and consistent for the sector.
“As many reflect on the lower mood traditionally associated with January and Blue Monday, our results are a joyful counter-narrative. They show that swimming teaching is a job that offers exceptional happiness and provides far more than just a salary.”
With thanks to the Institute of Swimming via Big Fish
