At a Glance
- Tasks: Teach swimming to children with diverse learning needs and ensure a safe pool environment.
- Company: Willow Dene School, part of the innovative Compass Eko Trust.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, training provided, and a supportive community.
- Other info: Flexible hours during term time with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your teaching skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in swimming instruction and a passion for working with children.
The predicted salary is between 20250 - 24750 £ per year.
Hours: 21 per week (Tuesday to Thursday 8:30am - 4:00pm each day), 39 weeks per year, term time, plus inset days.
Salary: Grade 5 SCP 12
Willow Dene is a large special school in Plumstead for children aged 2-19 across two sites. We are a forward thinking and innovative school that is committed to providing an outstanding education for children with a wide range of learning needs. Willow Dene forms part of the exciting Compass Eko Trust. We aim to inspire all children to engage confidently with the world and develop the knowledge and skills from across the curriculum that enable them to thrive. By working as one, we maximise the knowledge and skills of all the adults in our schools. We share the very best practice and learning from the research that will make a difference to the progress and achievement of all children. This Trust provides immense opportunities to develop the quality of provision and outcomes, and the sharing of good practice. We are a research-engaged community and are constantly seeking new and innovative ways of developing teaching for learning.
Overall Job Purpose:
- To ensure that the pool environment is conducive to the delivery of effective swimming instruction to children with a wide range of learning difficulties and additional needs, ensuring consistency of provision for individuals to ensure progress.
- To assist in the day to day running of the school pool by carrying out all duties as appropriate to the role, including health and safety and cleaning.
- To keep children safe through close supervision, vigilance regarding potential hazards, adherence to moving and handling guidelines, being able to effect a prompt rescue in accordance with lifeguard protocols and administering CPR if required.
- To assist with the planning, preparation and delivery of group and individual swimming programmes which have been suitably differentiated to meet individual pupil needs, with reference to the National Swimming Plan.
- To deliver and support innovative and effective swimming instruction to children with a wide range of learning difficulties (including severe and complex learning difficulties, complex medical needs, social and behavioural difficulties and Autism) on poolside and in the water.
Induction programmes and training will be provided for the successful candidate. This role is based at Willow Dene School; however, the role may also work across schools, to include Rowan Wood School.
Willow Dene is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all pupils attending the school. As the duties of this post involve regular contact with children, any offer to the successful candidate will be conditional upon an Enhanced DBS check being completed. This post is also subject to a satisfactory probationary period and medical clearance.
We encourage visits to view the school; however, we would warmly welcome telephone calls or a video meet with anyone who is thinking about applying to answer any questions or provide further information. Please contact Samantha Murphy, HR Officer to arrange.
Further information is available from the school website: www.willowdene.compassps.uk
Specialist Swimming Instructor / Lifeguard employer: Willow Dene School
Willow Dene School is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and well-being of both its students and staff. Located in the vibrant community of Plumstead, we offer a supportive work culture with extensive training and development opportunities, ensuring our Lunchtime Support Assistants can make a meaningful impact on children's lives. Join us to be part of an innovative educational environment where your contributions are valued and celebrated.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Specialist Swimming Instructor / Lifeguard
✨Get Involved in Local Sports Events
Find local sports events or community recreation activities in your area and offer to volunteer. This is a fantastic way to network with industry professionals, gain hands-on experience, and show your commitment to the field. Plus, it could lead directly to job opportunities in organisations like Willow Dene School!
✨Join Sports Management Associations
Consider joining sports management associations or local clubs related to your interests—these often have member directories or job boards. Engaging with these communities can help you learn about part-time roles and connect with key people who might point you towards open positions at places such as Willow Dene School.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you’re currently studying or recently graduated, don’t overlook your uni’s career services! They often have tailored resources for landing part-time roles in sports management and can help you with personalised advice, job listings, and even intro opportunities to employers like Willow Dene School.
✨Boost Your Online Presence
Create a LinkedIn profile highlighting your interest in sports and recreation management. Share any relevant experiences or passion projects related to sports, and join LinkedIn groups focused on the industry. This can help raise your visibility in the field and may catch the eye of hiring managers at Willow Dene School!
We think you need these skills to ace Specialist Swimming Instructor / Lifeguard
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Passion for Sports:When applying for a role in sports recreation management, let your love for sports shine through in your CV and cover letter. Share any experiences you have managing teams, coordinating events, or working in sports facilities. This enthusiasm is infectious and is sure to catch the eye of the hiring team at Willow Dene School.
Highlight Relevant Certifications:If you've got any certifications related to sports management, first aid, or coaching, make sure to list them prominently. These qualifications demonstrate your commitment to the field and your preparedness for the responsibilities of the job. Don't forget to mention any practical training that shows you're ready to jump in at Willow Dene School.
Flexibility and Availability is Key:For part-time roles, availability can be a big plus. Mention your schedule clearly in your application, showing you're ready to work weekends or evenings if needed. This will help Willow Dene School see you as a reliable choice who can fit in with their staffing needs.
Tailor Your Experience to the Role:When crafting your CV and cover letter, align your previous experiences with the specific requirements of the role at Willow Dene School. If you've coordinated sports leagues, organised events, or managed budgets, make sure those get the spotlight. This way, you can clearly show how you're the perfect fit for their team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Willow Dene School
✨Show Off Your People Skills
In sports recreation management, it's all about engaging with people—be it clients, team members, or event participants. During the interview with Willow Dene School, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully handled diverse groups and fostered positive experiences in recreational settings.
✨Brush Up on Your Technical Knowledge
From managing sports facilities to understanding recreational programming, don’t forget the technical aspects of the role. Prepare to discuss specific software or tools you’ve used for scheduling events or managing participants, as this shows you're ready for the part-time responsibilities you'll be taking on at Willow Dene School.
✨Communicate Your Passion for Sports
As this is a part-time role, passion counts for a lot! Make sure to convey your enthusiasm for sports and recreation in the interview. Talk about your experience with recreational activities—anything from coaching to volunteering—to help Willow Dene School see the personal investment you've got in the field.
✨Think About Your Flexibility
With part-time roles, it’s essential to demonstrate your availability and adaptability. Be ready to discuss your schedule and how you can adjust to the needs of Willow Dene School. Share examples of how you’ve successfully balanced other commitments while pursuing your passion for sports—it’ll show you’re a reliable choice for them.
