Meeting demand and telling our professional story

Tara Dillon CEO CIMSPA

Careers in aquatics is at a pivotal moment, with demand for skilled professionals higher than it’s ever been and the opportunities for progression significant But alongside filling vacancies, we have a bigger responsibility and that’s to tell a strong, positive story about aquatics as a professional career, and one that reflects the diversity, impact and potential that aquatics has

THE SCALE OF DEMAND

Recent data from CIMSPA and Lightcast shows the depth of opportunity in lifeguarding and swimming instruction Between November 2024 and November 2025, the UK recorded 5,211 lifeguard vacancies across 422 employers, including 194 management roles

For swim instructors, coaches and teachers, the picture is equally compelling with 1,813 vacancies across 128 employers in the past year

SPECIALIST SKILLS ARE WHERE THE FUTURE LIES

As with other professions across the physical activity sector, the aquatics profession’s future isn’t just about filling traditional roles, because it’s also about developing specialist and adapted skillsets that meet the needs of diverse participants and communities Aquatics professionals are increasingly called upon to support people with long-term health conditions as water-based exercise is proven to aid rehabilitation, improve mobility and reduce pain for conditions including arthritis Teachers and instructors who are trained in adapted exercise to support those with long-term conditions can transform lives

It’s important to recognise that professionalisation isn’t just about qualifications - it’s about pride

Equally, as the population ages, demand for safe, low-impact activity that supports both physical and mental wellbeing grows Aquatic programmes tailored for older adults help maintain strength, balance and independence, helping to reduce falls which currently costs the NHS and social care system over £23 billion a year, as well as improving quality of life

Cultural barriers, lack of representation and accessibility challenges mean some communities have historically had lower participation levels in swimming than others, so growing the number of professionals with the skillset to support diverse communities is crucial More professionals who are equipped with cultural awareness and inclusive teaching strategies are key to breaking down barriers and ensuring swimming is truly for everyone

These specialist areas require additional skillsets, but they also offer immense professional reward and recognition. They position aquatics professionals as health advocates, inclusion champions and community leaders.

WHY WE NEED A STRONG STORY

Despite these opportunities, the sector often struggles with perception. Too often, lifeguarding and swim teaching are seen as temporary jobs rather than respected careers. That narrative must change. We need to champion the professionalism of our workforce, highlight structured pathways and showcase the impact we make every day - whether that’s teaching a child to swim, helping an older adult regain confidence or supporting someone with a chronic health condition to stay active.

The sector’s professional standards and accredited qualifications underpin this story. These frameworks give us credibility and a clear message that aquatics is a skilled, professional sector with recognised career routes.

Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is key to unlocking these opportunities with learning in adaptive and inclusive practice as well as working with specific populations. Employers and customers value CPD as a marker of quality, but it’s important to recognise that professionalisation isn’t just about qualifications - it’s about pride. It’s about positioning aquatics as a career of choice, not chance, because when we tell that story effectively, we attract talent, retain experienced professionals, and elevate the sector as a whole.

Aquatics is a career that saves lives, promotes health, and builds confidence. As a career it offers flexibility, progression and purpose. With thousands of vacancies and growing demand for specialist skills to support a more diverse participant community, the opportunities are real and now is the time to make sure the world knows it.