ASPIRING swimming teachers are being offered the chance to make a splash by working towards a new qualification.

East Renfrewshire Culture and Leisure (ERCL) is delivering the Scottish Swimming Teaching Qualification (SSTQ), with the next course kicking off on Wednesday, September 14.

Those who are interested in the role can sign up for the block, which takes place online and at Neilston Leisure Centre’s pool until Saturday, October 15, with the aim of progressing to employment with ERCL.

Robert Hammond, of ERCL, said: “Swimming is a life skill and we’re delighted to be able to train our future swimming teachers to ensure we can continue delivering the best quality programme for learners.

“Our teachers play a vital role, helping young swimmers develop confidence in the water and delivering water safety awareness.

“We look forward to working with our next group and providing them with the support they need to complete the course and progress to paid employment as swimming instructors.”

ERCL runs three courses each year, with a maximum of 12 people, and those taking part must be aged 16 or over.

Among those who have benefited is 16-year-old Abia Mirza, who started lessons with ERCL a decade ago and is now progressing with her swimming instructor qualification to help others develop skills in the pool.

She said: “I have fond memories of learning to swim at Eastwood High School. The staff gave me lots of confidence.”

For more details, search for ‘swimming instructor’ at www.ercultureandleisure.org.