Following on from a fantastic 4th year in 2024, we are proud to announce the return of New Forest Swim Academy for 2025!
**Starting Monday 28th April 2025**
Mel Rayner – New Forest Swim Academy, Director/Owner
With two children myself aged 13 and 17, we wish for the children to enjoy the coast, but remain safe. With this in mind, we have ensured they have had lessons from a young age. However, it was quickly evident that lessons were hard to find and often had long waiting lists. So after spending a couple of years as an open water swim coach, I decided to qualify as an STA Swim Teacher and completed my STA Level 2 Award in Teaching Swimming. Two years ago I gained my next qualification as an STA Level 2 Certificate in Teaching Swimming.
Along with this qualification, I have my STA Level 2 Award in Open Water Coaching and RLSS Open Water Lifeguard, NWSMP and RLSS National Beach Lifeguard qualifications and last year gained my RLSS Rookie Instructor qualification.
I’m often beside the sea working as a Personal Trainer in Barton on
Sea – www.melsfitnessfusion.co.uk
Or fulfilling my role as an External Sports coach at Ballard School or working with my business partner Richard as we deliver over 20 swim retreats and events in the UK in 2025 www.thewildswimming.co.uk
I am very fortunate to be able to run the academy from Durlston Court School in Barton on Sea and Ballard school in New Milton. Both are lovely outdoor heated pools, set in beautiful surroundings.
With a great selection of swim teachers with SE, ASA and STA qualifications, I’m proud to be the Director of the New Forest Swim Academy and delighted to be helping both children and adults fulfil their swimming goals.
