STA CONFERENCE 2025: MAKING WAVES WITH LEARNING, LEADERSHIP AND COLLABORATION
This year’s STA Conference was the biggest yet, with more than 40 sessions delivering a programme of learning, networking, and practical insight for the aquatics sector. Returning to the Radisson Blu, East Midlands Airport on the 17th and 18th October, this year’s theme – Making Waves: Connect • Learn • Lead – captured the spirit of two days dedicated to professional development and collaboration. The conference brought together teachers, tutors, operators, and industry partners from all over the world to exchange knowledge, share best practice, and explore innovative approaches shaping the future of aquatics.
Olympic champion Rebecca Adlington OBE opened the conference with an inspiring keynote on access, opportunity, and the legacy of great teaching. Her message set a positive tone for a programme that combined technical learning with strategic discussion.
This was followed by sessions from world-renowned coach Wayne Goldsmith, who examined the power of microlearning and coaching precision, and ukactive’s Tim Mathias highlighting how EDI can be measured and strengthened through practical tools such as the EDI Score Toolkit. Andrew Clark, Head of Sport and Aquatics at GLL, also joined STA CEO Dave Candler to explore the future of school swimming.
Across multiple strands, over two days, delegates engaged in seminars and workshops, both in and out of the pool, covering the latest developments in lifesaving, first aid, pool plant, and business management. Presentations explored subjects ranging from water treatment and sustainability to digital transformation, apprenticeships, and safeguarding in the modern age.
A strong focus on inclusion ran throughout, with sessions addressing cultural competence, supporting behavioural needs, and inclusive teaching strategies for swimmers of all abilities.
The exhibitor space also played an important role, showcasing new products from leading organisations, alongside opportunities for delegates to connect with STA representatives and partners.
A highlight of the weekend was the 2025 Aquatic Excellence Awards, celebrating the teachers, tutors, and organisations that have made an outstanding contribution to swimming, lifesaving, and water safety over the last 12 months.
This year’s conference also marked a major milestone for the Association, with the official announcement of STA’s new Level 2 Swimming Teacher Qualification, launching in 2026. Created in direct response to feedback from members, swim schools, learners, and employers across the UK, this new regulated qualification will not only shape the future of the profession, it will also streamline the way courses are delivered and managed.
“The energy, ideas, and generosity of everyone involved - our speakers, exhibitors, partners, tutors, teachers, ATCs, and the incredible STA team - reminded us why this sector is so unique. Our theme, Making Waves, truly struck that perfect balance between professional insight and good fun; a weekend full of learning, laughter, and shared purpose.”
With its combination of thought-provoking sessions, hands-on workshops, and opportunities for genuine personal connection, STA’s 2025 Conference showcased the strength, collaboration, and shared purpose driving the aquatics sector forward.