Scottish Swimming Teaching Qualification (SSTQ)

Train to become a swimming teacher at the University of Dundee

A child in a swimming pool with swimming goggles on his head holding onto the edge of the pool

Sport and Active Health are offering the opportunity to gain the Scottish Swimming Teaching Qualification (SSTQ) and begin your journey as a swimming teacher.

This nationally recognised qualification provides the skills and knowledge required to teach swimming lessons and support aquatic development programmes.

There are 12 places available, including 4 funded places for candidates who will complete a work-experience placement within our Learn to Swim programme.

Course overview

Location

Sport and Active Health, University of Dundee. Practical sessions will take place in the Swimming pool, with tutor delivery in the Main Sports Centre.

Course dates

Participants must attend all course dates:

  • 9 and 10 May
  • 23 and 24 May
  • 6 and 7 June
  • 20 and 21 June

Times: 08:30 - 17:30

Course options

Option 1 – Book a course place
  • External candidates can secure a place on the course for £600
  • Booking deadline: 11 April 2026 (23:59)
  • Course code: 026MAY010 (quote this in all correspondence)
Book your place on Scottish Swimming website
Option 2 – Apply for a funded place

We are offering 4 funded places for candidates interested in developing experience as a swimming teacher within our Learn to Swim programme.

Candidates awarded funded places will complete a work-experience placement on Saturday or Sunday mornings, with delivery dates confirmed following successful application.

To apply, email [email protected] with an up-to-date CV. Applicants will be invited to an informal discussion with the Sport Development Manager or Swim Programme Coordinator before the application deadline to confirm your eligibility.

Eligibility requirements

Applicants must:

  • be 16 years or older
  • attend all course dates
  • hold a valid PVG (Protecting Vulnerable Groups) membership for working with children registered with Sport and Active Health before the course begins

If you do not currently hold a PVG registered with Sport and Active Health, we will process a new application or update on your behalf (as PVGs must be requested through our organisation).

PVG costs:

  •  New PVG application: £59
  •  PVG update: £18

For candidates awarded funded places, Sport and Active Health will cover the cost of the PVG application. Non-funded candidates will be required to pay the relevant PVG fee.

Note: Refunds will not be issued if candidates fail to complete the PVG application in time or if PVG membership is declined.

Apply now

Applications close 11 April 2026

Email for further information or to apply for a funded place