Individuality Swimming & Fitness Team Profiles

Kristin Maguire (Managing Director)

I learnt to swim at the age of 2½ and joined Poole Swimming Club when I was 8 years old. I was a member of the Club until I was 16 and competed in many competitions across England and swam for the County.

As I loved swimming so much, I became an Assistant Swimming Teacher and Lifeguard and taught at a local Leisure Centre. When I was old enough to take my Full Teachers qualification, ASA Level 2, I taught swimming evenings and weekends whilst I was at College.

At College I studied A Level I.T. and Sports Studies, also a Sports Diploma and Pre-Uniformed Services. These qualifications have helped me in my career and when I left College I worked at Fitness First as a Fitness Instructor and progressed to Studio Co-ordinator and started one to one swimming lessons in the pool.

While at Fitness First I achieved many NVQ’s, which include Personal Trainer, Circuit Instructor, Body Pump, Spinning, Aerobics, Step Aerobics, Weight Management, Nutrition and Aqua Aerobics.

After 2 years it was time to move on and I joined Swalings Swim School part-time and took ASA Parent and Baby and started to set up my own business INDIVIDUALITY, when not working. After a year I left Swalings and ran my own business full time, concentrating on small groups and one to one swimming lessons.

Since we started in 2002, INDIVIDUALITY has grown to about 3400 clients each week and I have an amazing team of teachers working for me. Individuality has now become a training academy so can train teachers inhouse and make our swim school the best which in turn makes our swimmers the best they can be. I am also the mum of three boys.

Gerard Maguire (Director)

I have been swimming from an early age and having been brought up in South Africa I spent most of my summer holidays either in a pool or in the sea. I love snorkelling, swim to keep fit and as a family we paddle board quite a lot.

I enjoy teaching parent and baby classes as you can see the babies develop and grow both physically and mentally over the lessons.

I have been lucky enough to work with some very large global brands over the years and now use that experience to help develop the swimming school.

We have three boys who all love swimming, so most weekends we go swimming as a family at some point.

Becky (Swim Manager)

I am the Swim Manager and Lead Aquatic Tutor at Individuality Swimming and Training. Growing up I was always in and around the water whether it be swimming competitively, coaching, teaching swimming or mentoring new and aspiring teachers.

I learnt to swim by accidently falling into a swimming pool on holiday at the age of 3, and deciding I could swim all on my very own. Following this eventful holiday, I joined a local learn to swim programme, and by the age of 6 years of age was invited to join Swim Bournemouth (formerly Bournemouth Dolphins), switching later into my teens to Poole Swimming Club. Throughout my journey as a competitive swimmer, I was coached my many passionate coaches and instructors who inspired me to want to pass on my knowledge and experiences to others. Poole Swimming Club gave me my first opportunity to start coaching and teaching while balancing my college studies and eventually from the age of 18 I was able to pursue my dream job full time.

Swimming for me more than just achieving a badge to move to the next level, it’s a life skill that opens so many possibilities.

My aim is to pass that same passion and enjoyment I have had from swimming over the years to all of our swimmers, and also to our amazing teaching team.

Fun Fact about yourself: I’m a bit of a music geek, I can name most songs from around the 80s onwards in any music quiz!

Favourite Stroke: Butterfly

Favourite Animal: Dolphin

Favourite Hobby: Football

Memorable Achievement: As a coach, watching my first swimmer qualify and compete at the British National Championships

Hannah (Swim Coordinator/Tutor)

I am the Swimming Coordinator at Individuality Swimming. Learning to swim at a young age, I fell in love with being in water. After I left school, I took my passion of water to the south of France for 3 years teaching sailing and windsurfing. I joined Individuality Swimming as a teacher and have worked my way up to swimming coordinator, I love being able to pass my passion into our teachers and swimmers.

I love teaching all ages and abilities, from 6 week old babies to adults who have never been in a pool before. It’s such an important skill to learn, especially when we are so lucky to live by the beach.

I love the different working days, the mornings in the office, then heading to the pool in the afternoons to meet all our swimmers, assist the teachers and pass on my love for the water. It’s great to talk to the parents to hear their water stories and how we have helped encourage their little ones. Communication is key in our company and I love to answer all the different questions.

Fun fact about yourself: I have a twin sister

Favourite Stroke: Breaststroke

Favourite Animal: Turtle

Favourite Hobby: Netball

Memorable Achievement: Jumping out of a plane at 16 thousand feet high or bungee jumping off 150m bridge

Clodagh (Swim Coordinator)

I qualified as a swimming teacher in 2013 once I stopped competitive swimming, but I wanted to still be involved with the sport I love. I am also a qualified swimming coach and have experienced some of the swimmers that I’ve coached achieving national level.

I am passionate about swimming and I believe every child should be able to swim confidently whilst having as much fun as I do when I teach.

I teach children aged 3 plus in group and 1/2:1 lessons and I also teach adult group lessons. My aim is to keep lessons as fun as possible whilst teaching all the skills needed to become confident in the water.

Fun fact about yourself: I’m a level 2 teacher and coach and love teaching parent and baby classes

Favourite animal: Turtle

Favourite Stroke: Breaststroke

Favourite hobby: Organising or shopping

Memorable achievement: I was a national competitive swimmer

Sarah (Swim Coordinator/Tutor)

I teach our Aqua Natal Classes, parent and baby, pre school group lessons, after school lessons and Mermaid. I also Poolside Manage on a Saturday.

I have a teacher training background so I naturally love working with children. I am passionate and enthusiastic in my role and love the kids to have a great time in my lessons as well as learning along the way!

Fun fact about myself: I have met over 30 celebrities

Favourite stroke: Breaststroke

Favourite animal: Giraffe

Favourite hobby: Paddleboarding

Memorable achievement: Being in charge of a jumbo 747

What inspired me to become a swim teacher: I was a teaching assistant alongside my full time job and realised how much I loved it. I saw some great teachers and wanted to be the same! I love nothing more than seeing the children have fun, progress and smile when they see me

Joy (Office Manager)

I have three children and all of them learnt to swim at an early age, they competed in many competitions across England and represented their County. My five grandchildren love the water too, but that is no surprise really!

I have done various jobs including working with young children and young adults in Education, been a Foster Carer for many years and also worked in a Hospice until recently.

Now working with Kristin and Gerard at Individuality in their busy office and still finding time to enjoy my grandchildren.

Favourite animal: Duck

Favourite hobby: Spending time with grandchildren

Memorable achievement: Fostering for 14 years and working in a end of life hospice

Kirstyn (Sales and Marketing Manager)

I learnt to swim at a very young age and have always loved to be in the water. I swam for a local swimming club until I was a teenager and continued my passion becoming a lifeguard in Chichester alongside my Sport Science course at college.

I moved to Bournemouth in 2021 to study at BU to pursue my passion in digital creativity and branding where I have recently completed my Marketing Degree achieving a First-Class Honours and being placed in top 3 of my cohort!

Fun fact about yourself: I was Sussex Floor and Vault champion in Gymnastics when I was little.

Favourite Animal: Dog

Favourite Hobby: Spending Quality time with loved ones.

Memorable Achievement: Submitting my Dissertation at University.

Pete (Customer Service)

My children learnt to swim at a early age and competed in many competitions across England and represented their country. I have five grandchildren and they all enjoy the water too. I run the pop up shops, help with outside events, get new business leads for swimming and also help run our Ferndown pool.

Favourite animal: Dog

Favourite hobby: Watching football

Memorable achievement: Youth football manager-winning the treble twice

Andrew (Poolside Manager / Swimming Instructor / Tutor)

I started swimming when I was five years old at Christchurch swimming club and grew to love swimming through the fun and care given by my old swimming teachers. At the end of my time at the club I took my first teaching qualification in 2015 and I have continued to gain new qualifications ever since!

I enjoy finding and exploring new ways to teach and impart my love of swimming and the skills I’ve acquired over the years to my swimmers. It’s also highly rewarding to see my swimmers of all ages and abilities, develop and grow in confidence in my lessons.

My parent and baby sessions give me great delight, particularly seeing little ones take their first steps in the water on their way to becoming little fishes.

Luke (Poolside Manager / Swimming Instructor/ Administrator)

I started swimming at the age of 3 on holiday in Turkey, I was taught to swim in a weird manner which meant I had to be able to get 2 metres down a fireman’s pole. From this point I grew very fond of swimming and tried to go swimming as much as possible, at the beach, on holiday or at local leisure centres.

I have been enjoying working for Individuality for the past 5 years, during this time I have taken part in multiple different training courses expanding my knowledge to teach everyone to the best of my ability and look forward to continuing to grow as a teacher. I am also a Poolside Manager so you may see me around at different venues, feel free to come and say Hello! I have also started my journey as an administrator with Individuality so listen out for me on the Phone. I look forward to Meeting you all in person.

Fun Fact about yourself: Had multiple knee surgeries

Favourite Stroke: Front crawl

Favourite Animal: Dog

Favourite Hobby: Football

Memorable Achievement: Passing my pool plant qualification

What inspired you to become a swim teacher: After completing my work experience for the company I have completed many qualifications and love passing on my knowledge

Marie (Swimming Instructor / Office Administrator)

I learnt to swim as a young child and progressed quickly, being selected for school galas and then joining a swimming club. I left after a short period to pursue athletics competitively, which I continued with until I was 21. I have completed GCSE PE and A level Sports Studies, before training as a fitness instructor and then swimming Instructor in 2001. More recently, I also gained my Coaching qualification and coach with Poole Swimming Club.

Fun fact: I can do a backflip

Favourite Stroke: Backstroke

Favourite animal: Dolphin

Favourite hobby: Yoga

Memorable achievement: Having my 2 children

Fun fact: I can do a backflip

Tom: (Swimming Instructor/ Office Administrator)

I learnt to swim at a very young age and went on to start swimming competitively at the age of nine. I have years of experience in learn to swim programmes and club level coaching at various companies and swimming clubs – it has always been a strong passion of mine. I was the captain of the Bournemouth University Swimming Team during my second year of my course – Sport Management – which I hold with great pride. I started teaching and coaching swimmers of all age categories just before Covid, and since then have gained plenty of experience.

Fun Fact: I have a season ticket at Luton Town FC

Favourite Stroke: Backstroke

Favourite Animal: Dog

Favourite Hobby: Going to the gym

Memorable Achievement: Swimming regional finals in 2023

What inspired you to become a swim teacher: The joy of seeing people progress

Aaliyah: (Swimming Instructor)

I have been swimming since the age of 3 years old. When I started I used to be a young swimmer with Individuality swimming, now working for them means I can pass on any experience I have gained over the years to other swimmers and watch them progress.

Favourite Stroke: Butterfly

Favourite Animal: Rhino

Favourite Hobby: Macrame

Memorable Achievement: Climbing Mount Snowdon when I was 12 for charity

Amy: (Swimming Instructor)

I swam from a young age, competing from the age of 6/7 until I was 18 in open water events in the sea and fresh water. I moved to the UK from South Africa at 18 years old. 

Best achievement: I swam for the county in South Africa and swam pier to pier twice!

Favourite stroke: Breaststroke

Favourite animal: Dogs

Hobby: Triathlons

Fun fact: I can drive a boat

Anand (Swimming Instructor)

Managing ADHD growing up showed that different style of teaching has a huge impact on the ability to learn and how important it is to teach in a range of styles to accommodate for the individuals. I swam competitively to regional level and played in a national league for water polo, I love paddleboarding, climbing and all types of watersports!

Fun Fact: I tend to say hello to the dogs before the person.

Favourite Stroke: Breaststroke

Favourite Animal: Dogs

Favourite Hobby: Swimming

Memorable Achievement:

What inspired you to become a swim teacher:

Aric (Swimming Instructor)

I’ve always loved to be a swimming teacher or a coach for people because it means that I can use my skills to teach other how to swim and become better over time. My swimming background consist of a swimming club but I left as I wanted to pursue to become a teacher for others. This made me see that I could help others to become great swimmers in the future. I like to spend time with friends outside, however I also enjoy playing online with friends. I also like to go out and explore nature with others as it’s relaxing.

Fun fact: I play the guitar

Favourite stroke: Backstroke or underwater swimming I enjoy how peaceful it is

Favourite animal: Meerkat

Favourite hobby: Playing online games with friends

Memorable achievement: Winning a game of paintball with friends

What inspired you to become a swimming teacher: To help others

Charlotte (Swimming Instructor)

My earliest memories of swimming are my favourite memories. Swimming in the national team was such a honour and I have made some really strong friendships from it. Getting up at 4.30am most days to train before school then back to the pool afterschool was more enjoyable with the squad around me. Now I get to teach children how to swim for them to maybe one day compete at Nationals like myself.

Fun Fact: I trained at national level for swimming.

Favourite Stroke: Frontcrawl

Favourite Animal is either a rabbit, panda or dolphin.

Memorable Moment: Getting up at 4:30am to go swimming training but it getting cancelled so the whole squad did land training in our pyjamas and played games for 2 hours.

Christopher: (Swimming Instructor)

I have been swimming in Poole swimming club for more than 9 year and over this time I have developed and perfected my stroke. I have managed to make some big competitions like national arena league and regional level swimming competition and now train with national squad in Poole Swimming Club.

Fun fact: I’ve flown a glider plane

Favourite Stroke: Breaststroke

Favourite Hobby: Model building

Favourite Animal: Seagull

Most memorable achievement: Getting my time down to under 1 minute on 100m Frontcrawl

Emily (Swimming Instructor)

Fun fact: I do gymnastics

Favourite stroke: Breaststroke

Favourite animal: Cat

Favourite hobby: Sewing

Most memorable achievement: Achieving a grade 1 in Flute

I love working with Individuality as it has given me a chance to work with children of all ages and learn different learning styles. It is such a great job and I love seeing the children’s progression throughout their different classes.

Erin (Swimming Instructor)

I started swimming lessons when I was in reception, but at the age of 4 it was definitely not my favourite! Through the help of my own swimming teachers, it only took a year or so for me to develop a real love for swimming. My favourite thing about becoming a swim teacher is that I can help other children with a fear of the water build their confidence, just like I did many years ago! 
Fun fact about yourself: I have 6 other siblings!

Favourite animal: Otters

Favourite Stroke: Front crawl

Favourite hobby: Drawing

Memorable achievement: Competing nationally at gymnastics

Freya (Swimming Instructor)

I have been competitively swimming for over 8 years, after deciding to join Poole Swimming Club, and have always had a passion for swimming. I decided to become a swimming teacher because as a swimmer, I understand the importance learning to swim and how it is such an important life skill. I started off as a helper, and then did my teachers course as soon as I could. I find teaching, really rewarding, because I get to watch children progress in swimming and find a passion and love for the sport.

Fun fact: I’m a massive motorsports and F1 fan and I support McLaren

Favourite animal: Otter

Favourite Stroke: Backstroke

Favourite Hobby: Swimming/ watching F1

Memorable achievement: Competing at the Olympic Swimming Pool in London

Grace (Swimming Instructor)

I have been swimming competitively since I was 6 years old with Poole swimming club and would love to pass on knowledge due to my experiences. 

Favourite Animal: Duck 

Favourite Stroke: Butterfly 

Favourite Hobby: Seeing friends 

Most memorable achievement: Competing at regionals 

Harry (Swimming Instructor)

Fun fact: I want to be a surgeon

Favourite stroke: Breaststroke

Favourite animal: Panda

Favourite hobby: Swimming

Most memorable achievement: Getting into National Swim Squad

I have been swimming for 10 years and swam in regional and national levels. I am a qualified Swimming Instructor at Individuality Swimming and I chose this career because I like to see the progress the children in my groups. It’s so great to see nervous non-swimmers putting their face in the water for the 1st time, jumping in and enjoying the water.

Jacob (Swimming Instructor)

My swimming journey started at the age of 3. I completed all stages by the age of 9 and achieved my gold rookie lifeguarding qualification by age 13. 18 months later, I returned to the water when I started working for Individuality as a swimming helper in the Easter of 2023. Being a helper was really good fun and I learnt a lot. It helped me pass my Swimming Instructor Qualification which I am now using to pass on my knowledge and love for the water.

Fun Fact about me: I am 1 of 7

Favourite Stroke: Front Crawl

Favourite Hobby: Riding my bike

Favourite Animal: Sloth

Jodie (Swimming Instructor)

I learnt to swim at a young age, progressing onto fitness and competitive groups. I started as a swimming helper and then became a Swimming Instructor. I have recently passed my parent and baby qualification which is something different. Seeing the little babies be in the pool for the first time is so sweet. Learning the life skill from birth is a great way to be happy in the water. I love teaching adults and children to swim and watching their confidence grow as they progress through the stages.

Fun Fact about yourself: I have 3 rabbits

Favourite Stroke: Front crawl

Favourite Animal: Panda

Favourite Hobby: Swimming

Memorable Achievement: Passing my parent and baby teaching qualification

Kate (Swimming Instructor)

I learnt to swim from a young age and just loved being in the water. I joined the local swimming squad and progressed quickly working my way up to County, National and British Championship Level. All of this was based just around Birmingham and then I went to Loughborough University, swimming for their first team and this is where I medalled at British Championships and was shortlisted for the 2010 Commonwealth games. Shortly after British Championships I broke my femur (thigh) and whilst I did everything I could to recover, using physiotherapy, altitude chambers and expert help based at Uni I struggled to get back to where I was and hung up my goggles Christmas 2011.

This started the next chapter of my life where I travelled, worked and tried new sports – but I’ve always wanted to give back to the sport that gave me so much especially as I was meeting more adults who couldn’t swim. I started Assisting in the water in 2023 and qualified as a teacher in 2025. I’m excited to pass on my knowledge and make sure people enjoy the water in safe way and I hope some will consider it as a sport to pursue or even a career.

Fun Fact: I have trekked to Everest Base Camp

Favourite Stroke: Front crawl

Favourite Animal: Octopus

Favourite Hobby: Cycling/hiking or if I want to sit down I will crochet.

Memorable Achievement: Coming 3rd at British Championships in 50m Free.

Keegan (Swimming Instructor)

Having come from a country where people spend a lot of time outdoors because of the good weather, my family and I were always in the swimming pool or at the beach.

I think it is important for everyone to learn how to swim. I get to be in the pool which I love and help teach children how to swim at the same time which is great.

Fun fact about yourself: I love doing physical activities such as mountain biking

Favourite animal: Lion

Favourite Stroke: Breaststroke

Favourite hobby: Riding my bike

Memorable achievement: Duke of Edinburgh silver award

Kirsty (Swimming Instructor)

Hi! I’m Kirsty, I’m from South Africa and grew up in and around the ocean and the pool. I swam competitively at National level when I was younger before I started traveling as a Scuba Diver instructor. I love teaching and sharing my passion & enjoyment of swimming with others.
Fun Fact: I’ve been to 15 countries

Favourite Animal: Whale

Favourite Stroke: Front Crawl

Favourite Hobby: Hiking and Surfing

Memorable Moment: Sky diving!

Louis (Swimming Instructor)

Learning to swim at a young age made me fall in love with the sport. I carried on swimming and competed in regionals when I was 15. I now coach the county squad at our local swim club. Teaching the little ones at Individuality is great because I can see them progress up the levels and some even into the swim clubs. Swimming is such a great sport and I love teaching it to all ages and abilities.

Fun fact about yourself: I have coached with an Olympian

Favourite animal: Penquin

Favourite Stroke: Fly

Favourite hobby: Swimming

Memorable achievement: Passing my driving test first time

Lucy G (Swimming Instructor)

As a teacher, I love seeing the children learn and grown and see the potential they have as young swimmers. I want to ensure they enjoy swimming as it’s such an important skill that can save lives and is so much fun. I was looking for a job and one that involves my favourite thing in the world is perfect. The kids are wonderful and I love every week seeing them grow and develop.

Fun fact: I have 2 dogs and 2 cats

Favourite animal: Dolphin

Favourite stroke: Breaststroke

Memorable achievement: Swimming at regional

What inspired you to become a swimming teacher: it was an opportunity to work within the sport that I love and pass that love onto others.

Lucy S (Swimming Instructor)

I began swimming at a young age and at the age of 9 decided to join poole swimming club where I competed at regional level multiple times. I am still a member of the club now and love to swim whenever I can.

I decided to become a swimming teacher because it is so rewarding to watch children develop both their skills and their love for swimming.

Fun fact: I’ve been skiing since I was 2 years old

Favourite stroke: Backstroke

Favourite animal: Bear

Favourite Hobby: Netball

Memorable achievement: Junior and Senior sportswoman at my school

What inspired you to be a swim teacher: Swimming is a big part of my life as I swam competitively for 7 years and teaching allows me to pass on my passion and love of swimming to children. It is so fulfilling seeing the children develop.

Magdalena (Swimming Instructor)

My name is Magdalena. I learned to swim as a teenager and progressed quickly. I graduated with a degree in physical education. I’ve always dreamed of becoming a swimming teacher because I can use my qualifications and skills to teach others how to become great swimmers.

Favourite swimming stroke: breaststroke

Favourite animal: turtle

Favourite hobbies: macrame, crochet

Maria (Swimming Instructor)

Fun Fact: I am currently learning French

Favourite Animal: Elephant

Favourite Stroke: Front Crawl

Favourite Hobby: Yoga/Gardening/Drawing

Memorable Achievement: Taught English in Kenya

I am a mum of 2 boys who also love their swimming like me. I swim in the sea as often as I can, especially in the winter! I have loved swimming since I was a child so to be able to pass on my passion is such a rewarding job.

Matilda (Swimming Instructor)

Favourite stroke: Breaststroke

Favourite animal: Goat

Favourite hobby: Swimming

Most memorable achievement: Completing my Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award

Learning to swim as a young child with Individuality themselves, I have always loved the water and becoming a helper meant I could pass on my skills and knowledge of the swimming to all our clients. I have always wanted to be a swimming teacher and now I am able to see young children learn this life saving skill if such a great feeling. During my lessons I help participants gain their confidence in the water which is the start of a fantastic swimming journey.

Matthew (Swimming Instructor/Office Administrator)

I love being a swim teacher because growing up I was pretty scared of water and swimming in general, but over time and with lessons, I managed to grow and reach where I am today. This leads to my love for the job because I can help people grow, whether over their fear of water or watching their overall progress throughout the lessons!

Why I Teacher: As I used to struggle with Confidence in the water when I was younger my swimming teacher was a great inspiration to me and I hope to carry on that Legacy.

Fun Fact: I Nutmegged a Chelsea Football Player

Favourite Stroke: Front Crawl

Favourite Animal: Roborovski Dwarf Hamster

Favourite Hobby: Football / Long Distance Running

Memorable Achievement: Hitting my Pre-Injury PB when Running.

Megan (Swimming Instructor)

I was a competitive swimmer growing up, and began assisting lessons in my club when I was 15, I have since gone on to teach my own lessons and have just spent a summer in America swim teaching.

Favourite stroke: Butterfly

Animal: Turtle

Hobby: Horse Riding

Memorable achievement: Winning 1st overall in my age group for a triathlon

Fun Fact: My uncle was in a famous band

Olivia (Swimming Instructor)

Fun fact: I have a cat and a dog who are best friends and I’ve swam under a waterfall

Favourite stroke: Backstroke

Favourite animal: Moose

Favourite hobby: Gardening

Most memorable achievement: Passing my swimming teachers qualification

I was a helper at Individuality Swimming for a few years before passing my teachers qualification which gave me the skills I have today to pass on my love of swimming. My Gran never learnt to swim so I am making it my mission to help as many people to learnt to swim as possible. My aunt is also a swimming teacher so following her footsteps has been nice. It’s such an important life skill and I love working with new swimmers to get the full optional from them.

Phoebe (Swimming Instructor)

Fun Fact: Recorded multiple CD’s with a cathedral choir

Favourite Animal: Dolphin

Favourite Stroke: Breaststroke

Favourite Hobby: Singing

Memorable Achievement: Achieving my Scuba diving qualification

I’ve been teaching swimming for over 3 years and have been swimming since I was a baby. I love all things water and it’s a great place for me to relax and have fun. Teaching swimming is where I am passionate and love seeing the participants have fun whilst learning.

Rhea (Swimming Instructor)

After learning to swim as a child I swam competitively until I was 17. I was born in Surrey and currently studying forensics at Bournemouth Uni and hope go into the police sector once I graduate. After spending most of my childhood in the pool, I wanted to become a swimming instructor to pass on the love of the water to everyone.

Fun Fact About Yourself: I am studying forensics at Uni

Favourite Animal: Guinea Pig

Favourite Stroke: Front Crawl

Favourite Hobby: Swimming

Memorable achievement: Passing my driving test first time

Rhianna (Swimming Instructor)

I learnt to swim as a child and became a helper for the company after a family member recommended the company. I was quickly noticed by the company in my abilities and put forward to complete my swimming teachers qualification. Once I passed this and became a instructor for the company I took on more hours. It’s so great and I feel like I have found something I enjoy but also get to do for a job.

After leaving school I became employed by Individuality Swimming. Completing my teachers qualification means I get to teach such an important skill and enjoy my time doing it. It’s really fun to see the kids progress and enjoy the water. I teach at lots of different pools we hire and seeing the children smiling and laughing when they come to the lessons is the best feeling. I have lots of pets at home and enjoying walking my dogs with my friends.

Fun fact about yourself: I have 4 dogs and 6 siblings

Favourite animal: Dog

Favourite Stroke: Front crawl

Favourite hobby: Football

Memorable achievement: Passing my swimming instructors course

Tasmin: (Swimming Instructor)

Working my way up through the classes until when I was younger, I fell in love with the water. When looking for a new skill to learn for my Duke of Edinburgh award, I became a Rookie Lifeguard. When I was old enough, I trained to be a fully qualified lifeguard and soon realised I could also train as a swimming instructor. Once qualified, I found I really enjoyed teaching people to swim, especially if they had fun while learning. It is so rewarding to see their confidence and ability to grow. Swimming is a very important skill to have, and I believe everyone should have the opportunity to learn.

Fun fact: I have pet shrimp which are yellow, blue and clear

Favourite Stroke: Breaststroke

Favourite Hobby: Journaling

Favourite Animal: Otter

Most memorable achievement: When I got into my top choice at uni studying Graphic Design

Tiara (Swimming Instructor )

I started swimming for Poole Swimming Club at the age of 8 and I competed at regional level. Swimming is such an important skill to have and seeing the children progress in their skills whilst having fun is so rewarding.

Fun Fact: I’ve been to 18 different countries

Favourite Stroke: Backstroke

Favourite Animal: Monkey

Favourite Hobby: Football

Memorable Achievement: Passing my driving test first time with no minors

Tim (Swimming Instructor)

I started as a helper with Individuality in August 2023 and am now a qualified Swimming Instructor. I’ve always loved swimming since my first parent-and-baby class, always being the first to get in and the last to get out! Despite not being the best at swimming, I enjoyed it because I had very special teachers who inspired me to become one myself. I think swimming is so important for both children and adults as not only is it fun, it is good for your health and can be a life-saving skill. I hope me and the team and Individuality continue to provide high-quality and enjoyable lessons.

Fun fact about myself: very good at table tennis

Favourite animal: elephant

Favourite stroke: breaststroke

Favourite hobby: going on walks

Memorable Achievement: Passing my swimming teaching qualification

Tom (Swimming Instructor)

I have been swimming for most of my life, and swimming has been my passion for as long as I can remember. I have had good coaches and swimming was my form of both fitness and socialising with my friends.

Fun fact: I support Leeds FC

Favourite Stroke: Front crawl

Favourite Animal: Orca

Favourite Hobby: I play American football

Achievement: I was a county level swimmer

What inspired me to become a Swimming Instructor: To help children improve

Vladka (Swimming Instructor)

I am a keen swimmer and enjoy various watersports. I also like to swim in the sea throughout the winter months.

I enjoyed bringing my own children to swimming lessons and watching their progress, so I decided to train as a swimming teacher when the opportunity arose.

I get huge satisfaction seeing children of all levels progress with each lesson. I always aim to deliver fun lessons where children are developing and learning new skills each week.

Fun Fact: I like sea swimming in the winter

Favourite Stroke: Frontcrawl

Favourite Animal: Seahorse

Favourite Hobby: Reading

Memorable achievement: Rasing my two children

Victoria (Vicki) (Swimming Instructor)

I had swimming lessons from the age of 4 and have always loved swimming. I have always spent as much of my free time as possible in the pool or the sea.

When my own children started having swimming lessons, I watched the Instructors and kept thinking to myself how much of a fun and interesting job it looked compared to my office work! Once all 3 of my children had started school, I trained, and qualified as a Swimming Instructor and Parent and Baby Instructor starting my new swimming journey with Individuality. I’ve never looked back.

Favourite animal: Cat

Favourite Stroke: Front crawl

Favourite hobby: Live music

Will (Swimming Instructor)

What inspired me to become a swimming teacher? I have been swimming since the age of 3, and soon by age of 7 I was swimming competitively for Poole Swimming Club and still am. I had amazing support from my swimming teacher of whom helped to build my confidence and my love for the water. And now I want to pass my love of swimming to the next generation after me, and enjoy their swimming journey as much as I have.

Ever since I turned 7 I have loved swimming competitively at Poole Swimming Club. I want to pass on my passion and experience to the people I teach so they can enjoy their swimming journey like me. Swimming is an important part of my life and I hope I can inspire others to learn new skills and most of all have fun.

Fun Fact: I play the trombone

Favourite stroke: Butterfly

Favourite animal: Snow owl

Favourite hobby: Sailing

Memorable achievement: Climbing to the peak of Mount Snowdon when I was 12 with Scouts

Zoe (Swimming Instructor)

I am a teacher at Individuality. I started to learn to swim at a young age, and seeing as I enjoyed it so much, at the age of 7 I joined Poole Swimming Club, where I competed at Counties and Regionals multiple times, and I am still a member of the club.

I wanted to become a helper to help see children develop new skills in the water and improve their swimming for the better. In the future, I would love to get my swimming teacher qualification to continue helping young swimmers.

Fun fact about myself: I have 2 cats and 2 dogs

Favourite stroke: Freestyle

Favourite animal: Monkey 

Favourite hobby: Kung fu

Memorable achievement: Going to regionals

What inspired me to become a swim teacher: To teach others how to have fun and stay safe around the water learning new skills

Eliza (Helper)

Fun Fact: I walked out with Millie Bright on the Wembley pitch for the Women’s FA Cup in 2018!

Favourite Animal: Bearded dragon (I have one called Willow)

Favourite Stroke: Butterfly

Favourite Hobby: Performing / dance 

Memorable Achievement: Performing on stage at the Pavilion and Lighthouse

I swam with Swim Bournemouth for 3 years, trained in synchronised swimming for 2 years with Christchurch seagulls and attended Branksome Surf Lifesaving Club. I am an adept mermaid swimmer and love any chance to use my mermaid tail:

I love performing arts and have played roles such as Pinocchio in Shrek, Le Fou in Beauty and the Beast and Charlie in Oliver

Finlay: (Helper)

I have always loved being in water. I joined a competitive swimming club at eight and started competing as soon as I could when I turned nine. I am currently competing at regional level but am hoping to qualify for nations next year. I also do surf lifesaving and compete in indoor and outdoor nationals every year which I love. I am a sea cadet and hold sailing and power boat qualifications. I just love being in water so this is the perfect job for me!

Fun fact: I am a competitive swimmer

Favourite Stroke: Breaststroke

Favourite Hobby: Swimming

Favourite Animal: Panda

Most memorable achievement: Completing my Bronze DofE

Freddie (Helper)

Fun fact: Live to play Tennis

Favourite stroke: Breaststroke

Favourite animal: Dog

Favourite hobby: Going to the gym with my friends

Most memorable achievement: Getting a 9 in my maths GCSE

Learning to swim at a young age has set me up for my first job, being a helper at Individuality Swimming. And it’s such a great job to have. Passing on my knowledge and love for the water.

Joshua (Helper)

Learnt to swim at a young age with Individuality themselves so coming back as an assistant is really moving. I love the water and becoming a helper meant I could pass on my knowledge to others and hope one day to become a teacher. Learning on the go is a great way to gain new life skills.

Fun fact: I live for football

Favourite Stroke: Breaststroke

Favourite Hobbie: Going out with my friends

Favourite Animal: Dog

Kayla (Helper)

I enjoy working with children as it’s a fun, refreshing and rewarding job. I like swimming too, I’ve been learning to swim ever since I was a baby with my mum at Individuality. That`s why I enjoy working with children in water as a assistant. Seeing the children progress through their badges is I like hanging out with friends, studying in school and going on runs.

Fun Fact: I can count to ten in Danish

Favourite Stroke: Front crawl

Favourite Animal: Sharks

Favourite Hobby: Rock climbing

Memorable Achievement: Beating my older brother in climbing

Lily (Helper)

I have been swimming since a very young age and have always loved the water. I was a part of a surf life saving team and have competed nationally. I came to Individuality because I love spending time in the water, but also seeing children progress and learn to love it too.

Fun fact: I have completed my Bronze and Silver Duke of Edinburgh award.

Favourite Animal: Giraffe

Favourite Stroke: Front crawl

Favourite Hobby: Baking

Memorable moment: Rowing for Dorset in county championships

Mia: (Helper)

I have loved swimming for as long as I can remember and I want to inspire the children to have a love for the water too. I started working as a swim assistant to help children feel safe in the water and I love watching them progress and develop. Its great to be able to come to work after a long day at school and see all the happy children in the water like I used to do. It`s very rewarding.

Fun fact: I have twin siblings

Favourite Stroke: Breaststroke

Favourite Hobby: Running

Favourite Animal: Dog

Most memorable achievement: Finishing my Bronze DofE

Oscar: (Helper)

My name is Oscar and I have been working with Individuality for a while now and absolutely love my job. As a swimmer since I was young I love being in water, from a pool to sea swimming.

Fun Fact: I swam with sharks as a kid

Favourite Animal: Shark

Favourite Stroke: Breaststroke

Favourite Hobby: Play Football

Most Memorable Achievement: Playing football at high level

Phillip: (Helper)

I started swimming competitively since I was 6 and I have done lots of different competitions throughout the years. I think swimming is a very important skill to have so I am happy to help children learn this lifesaving skill. I also play football and do bouldering.

Fun Fact: I have 2 rabbits

Favourite Animal: Dog

Favourite Stroke: Breaststroke

Favourite Hobby: Football

Most Memorable Achievement: Getting to the national final in Coventry for football.

Samuel: (Helper)

I begin swimming from a very young age, and swam for 5+ years. Alongside this I enjoyed other sports including football and running. Now a swimming instructor, I hope to gain valuable work experience.

Fun Fact: I’ve been to almost all AFCB home games since 2016.

Favourite Animal: Monkey

Favourite Stroke: Front crawl

Favourite Hobby: Tennis

Most memorable achievement: GCSE results

Savanna: (Helper)

Falling in love with the water as a child I took my passion to become a competitive swimmer. Competing in bi weekly galas and training morning and evening multiple times a week. Now in my spare time I love surfing and being on the beach with my friends. I love being a helper in swimming classes as I can pass on my love for the water and watch the little ones progress through the different swimming classes.

Favourite Animal: Dolphin

Favourite Stroke: Breaststroke,

Favourite Hobby: Swimming

Memorable Achievement: Getting a national medal in swimming

Taylor (Helper)

Hi, my name is Taylor and I enjoy playing football but when I go on holiday my favourite thing to do is be in the water whether that be swimming normally, on the slides or babysitting my water loving cousins. I have fell in love with the water which is why I enjoy my job so much.

Fun Fact: I am an only child

Favourite Stroke: Front Crawl

Favourite Animal: Dog

Favourite Hobby: Football

Memorable achievement: Getting to walk on AFC Bournemouth’s pitch

Tom (Helper)

Nearly finishing school, my helper position works perfectly around my school studies. Being a helper is very rewarding and a great way to gain experience before one day becoming a qualified swimming instructor. I actually learnt to swim with Individuality swimming, now working for them means I can pass on my skills onto other swimmers and watch them process.

Fun Fact: I learnt to swim at Individuality swimming

Favourite stroke: Frontcrawl

Favourite Hobby: Going to the gym

Favourite Animal: Dog

Most memorable achievement: Doing well in my GSCE mocks

Verity (Helper)

Hi my name is Verity. I began swimming at the age of three, completing all stages and then going on to complete gold Rookie Lifeguards. I love being both in and on the water. I enjoy water sports such as dinghy sailing, kayaking and paddle boarding but my favourite is yachting.

Fun Fact: I’m the middle child of 7

Favourite Animal: Starfish

Favourite Stroke: breaststroke

Favourite Hobby: Sailing and Netball

Memorable Achievement: Winning the RNLI ASTO smallships race 2024.

Zach (Helper)

I have been swimming since I was 4 years old and began swimming competitively when I was 10 years old. I have swam at county, regional and national levels and I still swim for a club which keeps my fitness up which helps along side my job and every day life.

Fun Fact: I climbed Snowdon when I was 7

Favourite Animal: My cat Luna

Favourite Stroke: Frontcrawl

Favourite Hobby: Swimming

Memorable Moment: Getting 25 seconds on my 50m frontcrawl

Cover Teachers

Tilly – Swimming Instructor

Eloise- Swimming Instructor

Ollie – Swimming Instructor

Heidi – Swimming Instructor

Lucy T – Swimming Instructor