Free training to become a swimming instructor, with a job guarantee in the Alkmaar region

In October, a training course to become a swimming instructor starts in Alkmaar. A training course that is offered free of charge, including a work placement and a guarantee of a part-time job. The training takes about six months. After that, swimming instructors can independently teach a group of pupils.

Finding well-qualified staff is a challenge in the swimming pool industry. This was the reason for Alkmaar Sport and Holland Sport, operators of Hoornse Vaart swimming pool, De Hout swimming pool, De Beeck swimming pool and Het Baafje swimming pool, to start a swimming instructor training course for the second time. A specific prior education is not required; anyone in possession of a valid swimming certificate can participate.

A training course with a work placement and a job guarantee

“Swimming safety is very important in a water-rich country like the Netherlands. Within Alkmaar Sport and Holland Sport, we provide swimming lessons to approximately 3,000 children every week and want to be able to continue doing this at a high standard. That is why we intensively supervise trainees during their placement period to become swimming instructors within our teams,” explains Marcel Ruitenberg, who as location manager is responsible for the swimming pools of Alkmaar Sport.

A job with both satisfaction and enjoyment

Marcel says: “A job as a swimming instructor is a role with plenty of variety. You don't just give ABC swimming lessons, but also supervise and provide entertainment. Furthermore, passing on knowledge to swimming lesson children, teaching the next generation how to swim, is truly the best thing there is.”

“We are looking for people who are ready for a new challenge, want to return to work after a break or are looking for supplementary work, for example at the weekend,” explains Bert Vos, team manager of De Beeck swimming pool in Bergen. “As a swimming instructor, you do work that really matters. You teach children skills that they will enjoy for the rest of their lives and contribute to their safety in and around the water. Together with the children, you experience the successes of every jump, every stroke and every swimming certificate. That brings fulfillment, and at the same time a lot of fun.”

Teacher Monica's experiences: the training is even more fun than I thought!  

Monica took part in the first edition of the training programme and has been working as a swimming instructor in Alkmaar and Bergen ever since. “I love water and used to take aquasport classes at the Hoornse Vaart. When I saw a post about the training on Facebook, I knew immediately that this was what I wanted to do. I like the variety best; first I give swimming lessons, then I supervise the disco or recreational swimming, followed by an hour of meetings with colleagues. We really do have a great team. Everyone is equal and that makes you feel at home quickly. It’s even more fun than I thought!”

Practical information

Marcel Ruitenberg concludes: “Get in touch with us, and you can ask any questions you have. Fancy the challenge and do we hit it off? Then you might just become a new swimming instructor in our team that teaches hundreds of children how to swim safely every year.”

The training programme starts on 6 October, lasts approximately 6 months and consists of six Mondays of theory from 09:15 to 16:00, a work placement period at one of the swimming pools, a first aid course and a lifesaving module. The participants are investing time. More information can be found at www.alkmaarsport.nl/swimming instructor.

The course is full. Registration is no longer possible.