Active Stirling has been announced as a finalist in the prestigious Scottish Water Learn to Swim Provider of the Year Award, recognising its outstanding commitment to teaching children and young people across Stirling to swim in a safe, fun and inclusive environment.
The award, run by Scottish Swimming, celebrates Learn to Swim providers that deliver high-quality programmes which not only teach an essential life skill but also create nurturing, enjoyable experiences for swimmers of all ages and abilities. The winner will be announced at the Scottish Swimming Awards ceremony on 20 September 2025.
Innovative and Inclusive Approach
Active Stirling—a charitable trust that delivers sport and physical activity services on behalf of and in partnership with Stirling Council—has been shortlisted for its innovative and inclusive approach to:
- Breaking down barriers
- Supporting families
- Providing clear pathways for swimmers to progress
The Learn to Swim programme is delivered across five venues in Stirling, maximising local access and choice for families. In response to feedback, Active Stirling has introduced new classes such as Swim Skills 1+ to keep children motivated and progressing. The programme also includes Sportability sessions, ensuring children with additional needs can participate confidently with tailored support.
Families are supported through resources such as a video library of stroke demonstrations, helping swimmers continue their learning beyond lessons.
Pathways into Employment
Active Stirling works closely with local schools to create pathways into employment for young people, offering training opportunities that can lead to roles as swimming teachers within the community. This strengthens the Learn to Swim workforce and ensures consistent, high-quality teaching across Stirling.
Beyond the poolside, a growing social media presence helps connect families, celebrate achievements and promote vital water safety messages.
We are thrilled to be recognised as a finalist for Learn to Swim Provider of the Year. This nomination is a real credit to our fantastic team—our teachers on poolside who inspire confidence in every swimmer, and our team behind the scenes who make sure everything runs smoothly. Together, we are creating opportunities for every child in Stirling to learn a vital life skill, build confidence in the water, and fall in love with swimming.
Driven by Passionate People
The programme’s success is underpinned by the dedication of a highly skilled and passionate team of instructors and support staff, who work tirelessly both on poolside and behind the scenes to ensure that every child’s experience is positive, progressive and inclusive.
We are incredibly proud of Active Stirling’s Learn to Swim programme, which is giving thousands of children across the area the chance to learn, grow and succeed in the water. Working in partnership with Active Stirling, we are committed to changing lives for the better through sport and physical activity and this inclusive and innovative programme reflects the very best of what community sport can achieve. This shortlisting is richly deserved, and we wish them every success at the awards.
