Become a Certified Swimming Instructor in Singapore
Are you passionate about swimming and eager to share your knowledge with others? Becoming a certified swimming coach in Singapore could be your perfect career path! There are numerous excellent courses available that will equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary to teach swimming effectively and ensure the safety of your students.
Embarking on the path to becoming a certified swimming coach in Singapore is a fulfilling and rewarding endeavour. Whether you aim to teach in private pools or public facilities, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate this journey.
To Teach in Condos or Private Pools only
Teaching with International Certificates
To start your career as a swimming instructor, you can obtain any of the following international certificates:
- AustSwim
- SSI Swimming Coach Course (by Scuba Schools International)
- ASCA (American Swimming Coaches Association)
- SSTA (Singapore Swimming Teachers Association)
These certifications are well-recognised and will qualify you to teach in various private settings such as condominiums and clubs. The courses are relatively short, typically completing within a few months, including attachments and practical training sessions.
To Teach in Condos, Private Pools and Public Pool
Becoming a Qualified Coach for Public Pools
The NROC was created in 2003 as there was a need to raise the standard and professionalism of sports coaching in Singapore. This serves to ensure that all coaches possess a minimum technical qualification, and also to ensure that all practicing coaches continue to improve.
If your goal is to teach in public ActiveSG pools in Singapore, you will need to become a qualified coach by obtaining your NROC (National Registry of Coaches) certification. This involves undergoing training with TeachSSA. Here’s what you need to know about this process:
- Training with TeachSSA: This comprehensive training programme is designed to equip you with advanced skills and knowledge necessary for coaching at public facilities.
- Course Duration: Depending on the intake and availability, the entire process, including attachments, typically takes an average of 1-2 years to complete.
- NROC Certification: Upon successful completion of the training, you will receive your NROC certification, officially recognising you as a qualified coach eligible to teach at ActiveSG pools.
Our Recommended Path for Aspiring Coaches
For those who are passionate about teaching swimming and are eager to start their coaching journey, we recommend the following path:
Step 1: SSI Coach Course
Start your coaching journey with the Singapore Swimming Instructors (SSI) Coach Course. This foundational course equips you with the essential knowledge and skills needed to teach swimming effectively. You’ll learn about swimming techniques, coaching methods, and safety protocols.
Step 2: Lifesaving 123
Enhance your qualifications by completing the Lifesaving 123 courses. These courses provide critical lifesaving skills and prepare you to handle emergency situations in and around the water. Mastering these skills is essential for ensuring the safety of your swimmers.
Step 3: Bronze Medallion (Optional but Recommended)
To further boost your credentials, consider obtaining the Bronze Medallion certification. This advanced lifesaving award demonstrates your proficiency in water rescue and safety management, making you a more versatile and competent coach.
Step 4: Aim for NROC
SG-Coach Level 1 (Full Integration) Swimming Programme
Finally, aim to be listed on the National Registry of Coaches (NROC). Achieving NROC accreditation signifies that you meet the high standards set by Sport Singapore for coaching competence, ethical behavior, and continuous professional development. More information here
