The qualification has been developed to provide a simpler and more accessible route into swimming teaching. It brings the learning previously delivered across separate assistant teacher and swimming teacher qualifications into one integrated course, helping learners work towards full qualification through a single course.

The previous pathway required learners to complete Level 1 Assistant Swimming Teacher before progressing to Level 2 Swimming Teacher. The Direct Entry Level 2 qualification brings these stages into one learning journey, reducing duplication and creating a clearer route to becoming a fully qualified swimming teacher.

Not quite, we will continue to offer the Level 1 Assistant Swimming Teacher qualification, depending on demand. Learners will be able to choose where they wish to commence their aquatic education journey.

The qualification is suitable for aspiring swimming teachers, career changers, students, volunteers, club personnel, and those returning to the workforce who want a direct route to becoming a qualified swimming teacher.

No. The Direct Entry Level 2 qualification does not require learners to hold a previous Swim Ireland swimming teacher qualification.

Learners must be aged 16 or over to register.

No. The qualification is designed to support learners entering swimming teaching for the first time, as well as those who may already have some experience.

Learners should be comfortable in the pool environment and able to participate in practical course activities. Any specific practical requirements will be confirmed in the course information.

Yes. Relevant safeguarding and vetting requirements apply. Learners must ensure they meet any requirements set out by Swim Ireland before qualification is completed.

The course covers the knowledge, skills and competencies required to teach swimming independently. It combines assistant teacher and swimming teacher content into one integrated learning course.

Yes. The Swim Ireland Aquatics Academy has been integrated into the new qualification, and skills not currently covered in the existing Level 2 qualification have been added. These include teaching diving, teaching turns, and teaching early artistic swimming skills.

The course includes six days of face-to-face learning (which may include a mix of virtual and in-person delivery), supported by digital resources and assessment activities. Learners will have 7 days post course to submit their assignments for assessment. Swim Ireland endeavours to award qualifications 21–28 days post course.

Yes. Practical pool-based learning and real-world teaching activities are integrated throughout the course so learners can develop confidence in teaching environments.

Yes. Learners must successfully complete all required e-learning, observation, practical demonstrations, and assignment requirements to achieve the qualification.

Learners will be given guidance on next steps in line with Swim Ireland’s assessment requirements. This may include reassessment or completion of additional evidence, depending on the assessment outcome.

Yes. Tutors will support learners throughout the course and provide guidance on learning, practical teaching, and assessment requirements.

Yes. This is a Swim Ireland qualification aligned with Sport Ireland Coaching standards. Successful learners will be able to teach independently once all course and assessment requirements have been completed.

Yes. If you already hold a Level 1 Assistant Swimming Teacher qualification, you can avail of a €100 discount for courses booked before 31 December 2026 to support you to continue your aquatic education.

Yes. Existing Level 1 Assistant Swimming Teacher qualifications remain recognised as part of an individual’s Swim Ireland education history. The introduction of the Direct Entry Level 2 qualification does not remove the value of qualifications already achieved.

Yes. We recognise that not all individuals wish to teach or coach independently. We will commence a periodic review of the Level 1 qualifications in 2027, but courses will continue to be offered based on demand.

There may be some content that is familiar, but this content will be delivered at Level 2 Swimming Teacher level.

You should continue working towards completion of your current qualification unless Swim Ireland advises you otherwise. If you are unsure whether to continue or transfer, contact the Education Team before making any changes.

Yes, you are welcome to book directly onto upcoming courses and will be required to complete the full Direct Entry Level 2 Swimming Teacher qualification.

All qualification courses must be completed within 12 months of the first date of course.

If you have booked a course that has not yet commenced, it may be possible to transfer to a scheduled course. Please check the “Course transfers” Education Policies & Procedures on the Swim Ireland website to check your eligibility.

No. If you already hold a Swim Ireland Level 2 Swimming Teacher qualification, your qualification remains recognised. You do not need to complete the Direct Entry Level 2 qualification because of this change.

The qualification outcome is the same: successful learners are qualified to teach independently. Employers should consider the qualification outcome, current competence, prior experience, and any relevant safeguarding or vetting requirements.

Depending on demand, we will seek to offer CPD opportunities for current Level 2 Swimming Teachers who wish to add to their skillset.

Yes. Existing Level 2 Swimming Teachers remain eligible to access relevant Swim Ireland CPD and further education opportunities, subject to any specific entry requirements for those courses.

The course fee is €699 for non-members and €629 for Swim Ireland members.

Yes, The Direct Entry qualification enables learners to complete one integrated course and make one investment, rather than completing separate qualifications at different stages.

Yes, if you hold an existing Level 1 Assistant Swimming Teacher qualification you can avail of a €100 discount on courses booked before 31 December 2026. Discounts will automatically apply at the time of booking.

Yes, funding may be available through Skillnet or Intreo for eligible learners. For more information, please contact education@swimireland.ie

Please contact the Swim Ireland Education Team education@swimireland.ie  with details of your previous course, qualification status and any assessment evidence you hold. This will help the team advise you on the correct route.

Where possible, please provide your full name, Swim Ireland membership number if applicable, the course or qualification completed, approximate course dates, tutor or provider details, certificates, assessment records and details of any relevant teaching experience.