Swim WL become country’s first to win prestigious swiMark honour

Aug 5 2010 by Eric MacKinnon, West Lothian Courier

SWIM West Lothian has become the first swim school in Scotland to be awarded the highly acclaimed swiMark accreditation.

They earned the award after demonstrating they are leading the way in setting new standards for lessons and strong teacher development.

swiMark is Scottish Swimming’s national quality accreditation programme for clubs and schools, and award confirms that the club have been recognised for the good work they have been doing.

It demonstrates a commitment to creating a sustainable swimming development pathway and operating a safe, child-friendly learn-to-swim programme, providing an effective service within the community that children and young people, their parents carers, and others with an interest in swimming can trust.

Richard Gordon, Director of Coaching and Development for Scottish Swimming, praised the impact of the lesson programme on the local community.

He said: “Scottish Swimming is pleased to recognise the important role Swim West Lothian swim school plays in increasing participation and improving the quality of sporting opportunities within West Lothian.

“Congratulations Swim West Lothian on achieving swiMark as part of Scottish Swimming’s Swim School Accreditation Scheme.”

Rob Blundell, Swim West Lothian Performance Coach, congratulated the teachers and volunteers on their achievement, saying: “It is fantastic that Swim West Lothian’s learn-to-swim scheme has been recognised nationally by Scottish Swimming and awarded swiMark status. It is a reflection of the tremendous effort made by the teachers and staff on a daily basis.

“This marks a real step forward for swimming development within the area, providing a nationally recognised standard that demonstrates a safe, effective and quality service for swimmers, teachers and parents.

“Swim West Lothian’s competitive programme is currently undergoing swiMark accreditation to ensure quality throughout the swimming development pathway.”

For more information about Swim West Lothian swim school and how you can join the learn-to-swim scheme, contact Tricia Aitchison, Swim West Lothian Development Coach, at learntoswim@swimwestlothian.com or call 07793547700.