Swim England Qualifications
SEQ Level 3 Managing Learn to Swim Programmes Qualification
October 1, 2025If you wish to take on the responsibility of managing Learn to Swim programmes, this qualification will help you develop the skills and confidence to do so effectively. Whether you’re already working in aquatics or aiming to move into a leadership role, you’ll learn how to coordinate the safe and effective delivery of high-quality swimming programmes that truly make a difference in people’s lives.
You’ll gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence to lead, manage, and continually improve Learn to Swim programmes.
You’ll find out how to:
- Understand and meet legal and compliance requirements.
- Monitor performance and develop engaging programmes.
- Manage and develop a high-performing workforce.
- Deliver exceptional customer service in a swimming environment.
You’ll also develop practical skills in applying industry guidelines, safeguarding, health and safety, and conducting risk assessments.
By the end of the qualification, you’ll be able to analyse performance, lead teams, and create memorable experiences for everyone participating in your Learn to Swim programmes.
Qualification Time
- 60 hours, of which 40 hours are recommended guided learning hours, which is the time an individual spends being taught or instructed by a Swim England licensed Educator.
Entry Requirements
- Learners must be at least 18 years old on the day their qualification registration begins. While not mandatory, it is recommended that learners have an approved SEQ Level 2 qualification. This prior achievement is suggested as it gives learners a solid foundation in swimming teaching skills, terminology, and practical techniques, which will aid their understanding and successful completion of the programme.
Assessment
Theoretical questions – structured short-answer and extended-response questions covering programme planning, customer experience, safeguarding, staffing, and quality assurance.
Scenario-based tasks – respond to realistic swim school situations such as staffing issues, safeguarding concerns, and programme evaluation.
Critical thinking and decision-making – demonstrate your ability to analyse situations, make informed decisions, and apply effective management strategies.
Application of management knowledge – show how you can use industry guidelines and best practice to manage Learn to Swim programmes in real-world settings.
This qualification isn’t graded – you’ll either pass or fail each mandatory unit. To pass, you must successfully achieve all the learning outcomes and meet every assessment criterion across all three compulsory units.
Next steps
This qualification has been developed to prepare you for work managing Learn to Swim programmes or to develop your skills further if you’re already in this role.
Once you’re qualified, you’ll be able to:
- Confidently coordinate and oversee the safe, high-quality delivery of Learn to Swim programmes.
- Apply your skills to support and develop your team.
- Contribute to the growth and success of swimming provision in your organisation.
You may also choose to progress into further education or training in areas such as:
- Sports Management
- Sports Development
- Sports Coaching
- Leisure Management
With this qualification, you’ll be prepared to advance in your aquatics or leisure career.
Extend your skill set with one of our CPDs.