About Us
The Standen Swim Academy is run by our family, and for 25 years, we have shared a true passion for teaching children how to swim and build confidence in the water.
We created our swim school to make learning to swim an enjoyable experience for both you and your child. We focus on positive encouragement, creating a safe environment where children feel relaxed enough to try, make mistakes, laugh, learn, and try again. Our goal is simple: build confidence, teach great technique, and nurture a genuine love for swimming and the water.
We are incredibly proud of our teaching team, which includes some of Hampshire's most experienced and enthusiastic swimming instructors. Our teachers are carefully selected for their knowledge, experience and ability to connect with swimmers as individuals. We recognise that everyone learns differently, so our lessons are designed to be engaging, adaptable and responsive to each swimmer's needs, abilities and goals.
Above all, we are committed to providing high-quality, individual-focused swimming tuition and to helping every swimmer reach their own potential – whatever that looks like for them.
The Standen Swim Academy is an accredited Swim England Swim School, an RLSS UK Club and an Approved Training Centre (ATC). Alongside our swimming programmes, we also deliver professional swim teacher training and NRASTC (National Rescue Award for Swimming Teachers and Coaches) courses throughout the year, helping to support and develop the next generation of swimming teachers.
All members of our teaching team are appropriately qualified and DBS checked, and we are committed to maintaining the highest standards of teaching, safety and professionalism across everything we do.
Our Team
Connie Standen
Over the last 15 years Connie has managed a number of Leisure Centre and Club sports programmes giving her a wide range of experience directing gymnastics, trampolining, synchro, water-polo and diving programmes.
However, her number one passion is swimming. An ex-international swimmer, she qualified as a swimming coach whilst living in Fiji and coached the Fijian national team.
Connie lives in Winchester with her three sons. Running her own swim school has always been her lifelong dream, and she is incredibly proud of building The Standen Swim Academy and the absolutely amazing team who help make it so special.
Director
Sarah Standen
Sarah has been teaching and coaching for 40 years. From 2003-2008 she was Head Coach at Tritons Swimming Club and National Coach of Fiji. Sarah’s swimmers competed at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and at the 2012 London Olympics.
In 2008 she joined Winchester City Penguins Swim Club, eventually retiring from her head coach position in 2021 in order to create The Standen Swim Academy in partnership with her daughter Connie.
Sarah has four children, all of whom became competitive swimmers and later swim teachers or coaches. Her four grandchildren all swim with The Standen Swim Academy. Many of our current staff members, especially teachers, are former students of Sarah.
Director
Having been a qualified swim teacher for 20 years, Scarlet has travelled world teaching in NZ, Fiji, Crete, Australia, & London. She has a passion for challenging her swimmers and installing a life long love of water. She ensures every swimmer leaves her lesson feeling proud and accomplished.
In her spare time you will find Scarlet in her art studio. She lives in Winchester with her partner and 11yr old daughter.
Swimming InstructorScarlet Standen
Gergő Bálint
Gergo has been teaching and coaching swimming and aquatics for over 12 years. Prior to this, he enjoyed a successful career as a professional water polo player, representing Hungary at an elite level.
His extensive experience in competitive aquatic sports has given him a deep understanding of technique, performance and the importance of building confidence in the water.
Over the past few years, Gergo has worked internationally across schools in Qatar, Kuwait, and China, where, as Lead Swim Teacher, working in programme and gala managements as well as with beginners and elite athletes.
He holds a Swim England Level 2 Teaching Qualification and an ASCA Level 3 Coaching Qualification, bringing a wealth of knowledge, enthusiasm and experience to every lesson.
Gergo's teaching style is energetic, engaging and supportive. He enjoys creating lessons that are both fun and challenging, ensuring every swimmer feels motivated and successful, regardless of their starting point.
Swimming Instructor 
Gary Paish
Gary qualified as a swimming instructor in 1984 and has over 40 years of extensive experience teaching swimming at all levels, including Lifesaving and Diving.
His passion for swimming started when he was young, swimming for his local swimming club. He then starting coaching for the club at 17. After working as a lifeguard as well, he worked his way up to management and set up a swim school as a charitable trust.
His style of teaching is energetic, passionate and fun. He strives to get swimmers swimming with great style once they’ve had fun gaining confidence in the water.
Away from the pool Gary can often be found on a bike, or attending cycling events!
Swimming Instructor 
Swimming Instructor Joe Silk
Joe has been teaching swimmers of all ages and abilities for many years and has spent the last three years coaching competitive swimmers. A passionate swimmer himself, Joe competed extensively when he was younger and retains a particular love for Freestyle and Butterfly.
With a strong focus on technique, Joe is dedicated to helping every swimmer become the best version of themselves. He enjoys developing and adapting drills to suit individual needs, enabling swimmers to build confidence, refine their skills and make lasting progress in the water.
Having spent the last three years coaching swimmers in Winchester, from developing club swimmers through to county, regional and national-level competitors, Joe has extensive experience supporting swimmers at every stage of their journey. His enthusiastic and encouraging approach helps swimmers achieve their personal goals while fostering a lifelong enjoyment of the sport.
Joe is excited to meet new swimmers and help them unlock their full potential in the pool.
Jeannette Elliot
Jeannette has had a lifelong love of swimming. It runs in the family; Jeannette is an ex-international swimmer and her brother is a cliff diver!
Jeannette has been teaching for over 15yrs and loves seeing her swimmers gain confidence and fall in love with the water. Her patience and caring nature instantly puts her swimmers at ease.
In her spare time, she is kept busy with her two sons and going away as a family in the camper van.
Swimming Instructor
Hannah Wiggins-Bettles
Hannah has been teaching swimming and lifesaving for over 20 years and loves to see the development of our swimmers into lifeguards of the future!
Having an awareness of how to stay safe around water is so important, whether it's on a family holiday to a villa, a day trip to the beach, or just walking next to the river on the way home!
Swimming Instructor
Vikki has been a swimming instructor for over 10 years, having worked and gained experience with a variety of swimmers during this time.
Vikki specialises in teaching swimming to children and adults with learning disabilities. She regularly incorporates sign language and visuals into her lessons to assist children and adults in lessons. Vikki has a fun approach to swim teaching, whilst focusing on those core swimming and water safety skills.
In her spare time Vikki loves to take her son Samuel swimming.
Swimming Instructor Vikki Townsend
Hannah Miller
Hannah started her journey as a swimming teacher when she was a teenager, and she always wanted to return to it later on. Now, nearly fifteen years later and mum of three, Hannah has returned to the pool.
Although she teaches all stages at The Standen Swim Academy, Hannah’s passion is in the Baby & Preschool classes where she loves to bring lots of energy to the lessons; using different toys and equipment to engage both adults and children to have fun while learning in the water. Hannah is eager to add more sensory experiences to her lessons so children can play and explore as well as learning core swimming skills.
Swimming Instructor
Henry Tighe
Teaching once more for the Standen Swim Academy, Henry was part of our original team that first started delivering lessons at Durley House. Qualified as both a teacher and coach, Henry has spent nearly fifteen years working with multiple learn to swim programmes around Winchester, in addition to the local club.
Having taken a brief hiatus from the world of swimming to eventually start a degree with the Open University, Henry returns as enthusiastic as before. Maintaining a strong technical focus, he remains committed to starting positive habits, streamlining and neutral body position as key examples , as early as possible whilst encouraging an enjoyment of all things aquatic.
Swimming Instructor
Sally adores the water and especially enjoys teaching beginner stages and watching those breakthrough, rewarding moments when a child does something for the first time.
Sally says she is always found surrounded by children as she has 5 of her own and 1 grandchild. Sally is a qualified nanny and also teaches gymnastics and dance.
In her spare time Sally and her husband have a ceramics business so can mostly be found their studio.
Swimming InstructorSally Wood
Sharon McHale
Sharon’s first job was as a life guard, and she qualified as a Level 2 teacher over 32 years ago. Sharon is also an aquaphobic coach and has previously taught dolphin snorkelling.
Sharon’s lessons are safe and fun and she loves to experience the moment when a learner swims for the very first time.
Sharon taught one of our most popular teachers, Fraser, how to swim! She loves the outdoors, walking her dog, playing netball, gardening and socialising lots.
Swimming Instructor
Fraser White
Fraser is a Swim England Level 2 teacher, but started as a poolside helper at the age of 13 at Eastleigh Swim Club. He is currently training and competing in swimming and recently gained a bronze medal in the 100m backstroke at Nationals in 2022.
He loves being able to teach in the water, as well as watch his swimmers develop vital skills whilst also having fun in their lessons.
Swimming Instructor
Swimming InstructorJessica Duffin
Jessica started as an assistant teacher for her local swimming club, Portsmouth Northsea, at 14 years of age. She has taught swimming for 17 years with a brief break to study Children's Nursing in London.
Swimming is her passion and she loves watching swimmers gain confidence and enjoy being in the water. She enjoys teaching all stages of learner!
Outside of work Jess spends most of her time chasing around after her two boys who are one and two years of age.
Andrea Menlove
Andrea is a qualified swimming teacher and an assistant coach. She has been involved in swimming for nearly 20 years in a number of different voluntary capacities, primarily for Winchester City Swimming Club. With 3 children (now adults) having progressed through the learn to swim programmes and on to become National swimmers. She has gained her experience from all levels, fostering her love for swimming and its many life skills and benefits.
Seeing children smile and laugh as they learn to swim confidently and safely is a pleasure to watch and be a part of.
When Andrea is not at the pool she enjoys spending time outdoors with her Labrador Yoshi.
Swimming Instructor
Jordan Curry
Jordan is an engaging, thoughtful and passionate swim teacher. Having worked with children for over 10 years, he prides himself in understanding that every swimmer is individual and therefore tailors his teaching style around their individual needs. With his favourite themes being anything involving fancy dress, Jordan throws himself into the creative part of lessons, ensuring swimmers are engaged and loving learning.
In his spare time, Jordan is a big fan of Portsmouth Football club and can often be found cheering them on (but don't hold that against him)! He is also a very talented singer and sings in a band.
Swimming Instructor
Swimming InstructorHannah Dowdell
Hannah started her career as a lifeguard and very quickly moved onto teaching, now with over 12 years experience teaching children from first time beginners up to competitive squad levels.
She grew up swimming competitively and reached a national level at age 14, so has a huge love for competing. She started open water swimming before having her little boy and hopes to keep that hobby alive, whilst also taking care of her little boy.
She enjoys teaching all ages and abilities and being able to encourage children to reach their full potential, perfecting their strokes and skills, whilst keeping the lessons fun, enjoyable and safe. She has also recently qualified in teaching adult and baby lessons.
She had a former student who fell into a fast-flowing river while on holiday, but managed to keep herself safe using the skills she’d learned in her lessons. Moments like that reminded Hannah just how vital our work as teachers really is, and left her deeply proud of the young girl’s ability to stay calm under pressure.
Bethan Bottomley
With over 15 years of teaching experience and a background as a competitive swimmer, Bethan brings a wealth of knowledge and a sharp eye for technique to every lesson. She particularly enjoys working with the older stages, helping swimmers refine their skills and build confidence in the water. Friendly and approachable, Bethan has a natural ability to put swimmers at ease. She loves seeing her students leave their lessons feeling proud of what they’ve achieved , whether it’s mastering a new stroke or simply gaining more confidence.
Swimming Instructor 
Sam Thwaites
Sam has been teaching swimming lessons in Winchester and Southampton for over 15 years. With a passion for helping swimmers of all levels, he finds joy in every stage of the journey, from little Stage 1s bravely putting their faces in the water for the first time, to confident Stage 6 swimmers smashing their first 1km swim.
Sam is known for his calm, cool, and charismatic approach, which works especially well with our older swimmers. He’s brilliant at building trust and rapport, helping swimmers feel confident, capable, and supported in reaching their goals.
Outside the pool, Sam is a self-confessed car enthusiast. If it has four wheels, Sam’s interested!
Swimming Instructor 
Swimming InstructorGeriant Woods
Geriant, otherwise known as G, is an enthusiastic, engaging and passionate swim teacher and lifeguard. With his mother also being a swim teacher, he has grown up around poolside and therefore qualified as a lifeguard as soon as he turned 16yrs old.
Geriant is never seen without a smile on his face and ensures that his swimmers are exactly the same. In his spare time Geriant enjoys playing basketball and studying chemistry & maths.
Lauren Radley
Lauren is an enthusiastic swim teacher who loves working with all ages and takes pride in helping swimmers grow more confident in the water and reach their full potential.
Her lessons are fun and tailored to each child’s pace, ensuring every swimmer feels comfortable and proud of their progress. She holds the NPLQ lifeguard qualification, so safety is always a priority.
Lauren is currently studying business, maths and psychology at college.
Swimming Instructor
Lucy Morris
Lucy started swim teaching at 15, and has now been teaching for 8 years, and has been working for the Standen Swim Academy since we opened in 2021. She has swum all her life, and was captain of her university swim team. At university she studied Criminology, and is hoping to work in Forensic Science in the future.
For the past 4 years she has worked in America at a Summer Camp running their Waterfront programme.
She loves teaching all stages, particularly stage 1 & 2 as she loves to see their confidence grow in the water and watching their skills develop.
She recently returned from travelling Australia, where she worked as a swimming teacher in Perth!
Swimming Instructor
Swimming Instructor
Rachel Harris
With a background in lifeguarding, sports, and leisure, Rachel is excited to dive into the world of teaching swimming at The Standen Swim Academy. She loves creating fun, positive sessions where children can grow, gain confidence, and master an essential life skill. She loves to bring plenty of energy, enthusiasm, and passion to the poolside.
When she is not teaching, you’ll usually find her out exploring the area with her two beautiful, totally crazy dogs, who definitely take after their owner!
Lizzy Brown
Lizzy has a background in competitive swimming. She brings enthusiasm to every lesson and takes pride in watching swimmers progress and gain confidence in the water. Her favourite theme of the week is Dinosaurs week, but really she find an excuse to incorporate dinosaurs in to her lessons.
Lizzy was a competitive swimmer for 8 years and loves sharing her passion for the sport with her swimmers. She is currently studying Biology, Geography and Media Studies.
Swimming Instructor
Anita Caruana
Anita has been passionate about swimming from an early age, as a competitive swimming and also as a teacher at just 15. With 25 years of swim-teaching experience, she brings a wealth of knowledge, skill, and dedication to every lesson.
She began coaching at her local swim club in Malta, where she continued to expand her qualifications and experience, working with swimmers of all ages and abilities eventually becoming a head coach. Inspired to take her passion even further, Anita went on to establish her own successful swim school in Malta. Later, she moved to the UK to further her studies and continue developing her teaching career. Alongside her studies, she taught swimming at various pools in Southampton, and also spent several years as a swim school coordinator.
Anita has worked with a wide range of abilities from beginners and improvers to advanced swimmers, teaching both children and adults in groups and 1:1’s. .
In her spare time, she’s usually at the pool with her son and daughter, who are both keen swimmers and share her love of the water.
Swimming Instructor
Swimming InstructorEddie Owen
Eddie is a friendly and energetic instructor who brings big smiles, enthusiasm and positivity to every lesson. He is passionate about making swimming both fun and challenging, helping each child build confidence in the water while developing strong technique.
He finds great satisfaction in creating a motivating and inclusive environment where every child feels comfortable, capable and proud of their progress. Eddie believes that building trust and strong relationships with his swimmers is key to helping them achieve their full potential, all whilst enjoying every moment in the pool.
Outside of the swim school, Eddie is studying A Level PE, Business Studies and Data Analytics. He is as happy in the water as he is out on it, with a love for sailing and paddle boarding. An all-round sportsman, Eddie particularly enjoys football, futsal and skiing, and brings his broad sporting knowledge and competitive spirit into his coaching.
Sophie Kent
Sophie has always had a strong connection with the water. From a young age she was a competitive swimmer, representing clubs in both New Zealand and England for eight years before pausing competition to focus on her studies.
Her teaching journey began at just 14 years old when she started assisting lessons at her local swim club. It was there that Sophie discovered how much she loved helping swimmers build confidence and develop their skills in the water. Since then, she has gone on to teach at a variety of swim schools, gaining experience with swimmers of different ages and abilities.
In the future, Sophie plans to study Forensic Science at university while continuing to pursue swimming teaching alongside her studies, a role that remains a genuine passion of hers.
Swimming Instructor
Toli Ormerod
Toli has been teaching swimming for over two years, working with children aged 3–10 and helping young swimmers develop water confidence, core skills and a love of being in the water. During this time he has gained valuable experience delivering lessons for swimmers at a range of early stages, supporting them as they progress from initial water confidence through to developing their stroke technique.
Toli particularly enjoys working with younger swimmers, creating a calm, encouraging environment where children feel safe, supported and motivated to achieve their next milestone. He takes great pride in helping swimmers build their confidence and celebrating the small successes that lead to long-term progress.
Friendly, enthusiastic and approachable on poolside, Toli is passionate about helping children enjoy their swimming while developing important life-long water safety and swimming skills
Swimming Instructor 
Swimming Instructor
Grace Wyatt
Grace has grown up in a swimming club environment and started volunteering as a teaching assistant at age 14, moving on to gain her teaching qualifications as soon as she turned 16. She is returning to teach at The Standen Swim Academy this term having taken a break for her studies.
Grace finds it very rewarding when a swimmers makes a break through, whether that is putting their face in the water for the first time or perfecting butterfly technique. Building a rapport with her swimmers is key, while also ensuring that their learning experience is an enjoyable one.
Grace is planning to study medicine at university in 2026, and when she is not busy in the pool she loves to run!
Beth Phillips
Beth is a bubbly and enthusiastic teacher who loves to incorporate fun into her lessons. Beth loves to see swimmers progress throughout the term, filling her lessons with praise and encouragement.
Beth finds teaching to be incredibly rewarding, she ensures she builds a trusting relationship with her swimmers so each child can reach their potential and have fun!
Outside the swim school, Beth studies Law at the University of Birmingham where she also enjoys playing Touch Rugby. Beth has a passion for staying active in the gym and hopes to help children stay active in swimming whilst learning a life long skill!
Swimming Instructor
Evie Lynch
Evie believes that children learn best through creative and imaginative play. As a competitive swimmer from the age of 9, she developed a strong foundation in the sport before turning her passion into a teaching and coaching career.
She began as a swim assistant at Winchester Swim Club at just 14, and has since earned her coaching qualification, gaining valuable experience working with swimmers of all levels. Evie enjoys blending games and challenges into her lessons, all while keeping the focus on key swim skills and water safety. Her favourite part of teaching is watching her swimmers grow in confidence and have fun along the way.
With Evie, every lesson is packed with energy, encouragement, and imagination!
Swimming Instructor
Swimming InstructorAllana Aldhouse
Allana has been swimming competitively since she was 7, starting at Winchester Swimming Club. She loves being in and around the water, and wants to pass on her passion to the next generation of swimmers. She has volunteered with a SEN group as an assistant coach, which taught her invaluable lessons in communication and the importance of adapting.
Her favourite theme is Construction. She loves the pure excitement on her swimmers faces when they get to build huge towers , and then of course knock them all over!
Out of the pool she is studying biology, chemistry & maths with the goal of studying medicine in the future.
Sophie Jones
You will almost always find Sophie by the pool, whether lifeguarding, teaching, or in the water supporting swimmers. Swimming has always been a huge passion for her, and after gaining her NPLQ qualification at the age of 16, she has now been teaching for nearly three years.
Sophie loves bringing plenty of fun, energy, and laughter into her lessons, believing that children learn best when they are relaxed and enjoying themselves in the water. One of the most rewarding parts of teaching for her is seeing the excitement on a swimmer’s face when they suddenly realise they have mastered a new skill.
Outside the pool, Sophie is studying Education and Early Years Studies at the University of Winchester, where she is continuing to develop her understanding of how children learn and grow, bringing those skills back into every lesson she teaches at The Standen Swim Academy.
Swimming Instructor
Freddie Smith
Freddie is not only a Swim England Level 2 Teacher but also a NPLQ lifeguard. He also has a background in competitive swimming.
Otherwise known as the BFG, Freddie’s calm and friendly demeanour puts his swimmers instantly at ease. He finds the perfect balance between ensuring his swimmers are always being challenged, while still having fun and respecting the water.
In his spare time, you will often find Freddie on the rugby field.
Swimming Instructor
Swimming Instructor Ben Minster
Ben has been passionate about swimming from a young age, beginning lessons at the age of five and progressing through the competitive swimming pathway in Essex before going on to compete at British National level.
His experiences as both a competitive swimmer and swimming teacher have shaped a coaching style that places equal importance on confidence, enjoyment and technical development. Ben believes that swimmers achieve their best results when they feel safe, supported and genuinely enjoy their time in the water. One of the aspects of teaching he finds most rewarding is helping swimmers grow in confidence and achieve goals they may never have thought possible.
Outside of the pool, Ben enjoys staying active through regular gym training and has a keen interest in a variety of sports, particularly football and golf.
Ben Hatfield
Ben has enjoyed swimming from a young age and progressed through Winchester City Penguins Swimming Club from learn-to-swim lessons all the way to competing in finals at British National Championships. He continues to swim competitively while studying at Loughborough University, balancing his academic studies with high-level training alongside some of the country's top swimmers, including Olympians.
Ben's teaching style is shaped by patience, understanding and clear communication. Growing up alongside his sister, who has Down Syndrome, has given him valuable insight into adapting his approach to suit individual needs and learning styles. These experiences help him build strong relationships with swimmers of all abilities, creating a positive and supportive environment where every swimmer can thrive.
Whether working with beginners developing water confidence or more experienced swimmers refining their technique, Ben is committed to helping each swimmer achieve their potential while enjoying every step of their swimming journey.
Swimming Instructor 
Cat Tarmey
Cat is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to swimming. She first started helping with swimming lessons at 14 before gaining her qualification at 16. As a competitive swimmer she has qualified for England Nationals 4 times, achieved a silver medal at Regionals and swam the English Channel as part of a relay team. She feels as though swimming is a vital skill and is passionate about teaching others.
Outside of swimming and teaching Cat is doing geography, history and biology A level and enjoys playing all kinds of sport.
Swimming Instructor 
Swimming InstructorCharlotte Austin
Charlie is a friendly and enthusiastic teacher who enjoys helping children build confidence in the water while making lessons fun and engaging. Alongside swimming, she coaches under-13 athletes and loves working with young people, helping them develop new skills and achieve their goals.
With a love of reading and a creative imagination, Charlie enjoys incorporating stories, games and imaginative activities into lessons, helping younger swimmers feel relaxed, engaged and excited to learn. Passionate about being in the water, she brings plenty of energy, enthusiasm and a positive attitude to every lesson.
Charlie is committed to creating a supportive and encouraging environment where swimmers can build confidence, develop their technique and enjoy every step of their swimming journey.
Megan Fenwick
Megan has been involved in swimming from a young age, volunteering at her local swim club from the age of 12 before qualifying as a swimming teacher at 16. Her passion for swimming and teaching has continued to grow ever since.
Megan's lessons are energetic, engaging and fun, while maintaining a strong focus on developing excellent technique. She enjoys getting to know each swimmer as an individual, tailoring her teaching approach to suit their personality and learning style. Her friendly and enthusiastic nature helps swimmers feel relaxed, confident and motivated to achieve their goals.
Outside of teaching, Megan is studying Product Design for Industry and enjoys capturing the places she visits in her sketchbook. She loves spending time outdoors with her dogs and horses and, as a competitive swimmer and runner herself, can often be found training in the pool or out on a run.
Swimming Instructor
Jasmine Corrie
A true water baby from a young age, Jazzy has been swimming competitively since the age of nine and has been teaching swimming for the past seven years. Having been mentored by Sarah and Connie Standen, she began her journey as a swimming assistant at just 14 before qualifying as a teacher at 16.
Jazzy believes that children learn best when they are having fun, and her lessons are known for being imaginative, engaging and full of energy. She loves incorporating creative themes and games into her teaching, helping swimmers stay motivated while developing strong technique and making excellent progress in the water.
Outside of the pool, Jazzy studies Philosophy and Psychology at Durham University. She has a passion for learning and enjoys spending her free time reading philosophy, as well as pursuing creative hobbies such as painting and lino printing.
Swimming Instructor
Swimming InstructorAmie Bannister
Amie has been part of The Standen Swim Academy since its very beginning and has helped hundreds of swimmers develop confidence, improve their skills and discover a love of the water. With over eight years of experience in the swimming industry, she brings a wealth of knowledge, expertise and enthusiasm to every lesson she teaches.
As a fully qualified Adult & Child swimming teacher, Amie has a particular passion for working with younger swimmers. Her calm, patient and nurturing approach helps children feel safe and secure in the water, allowing them to build confidence, develop new skills and enjoy every stage of their swimming journey. She has a wonderful ability to put even the most nervous swimmers at ease and create a positive learning environment where every child can thrive.
Before becoming a full-time primary school teacher, Amie worked as a full-time swimming teacher, giving her valuable experience both in and out of the classroom. Her understanding of child development, learning styles and confidence-building techniques shines through in every lesson.
Alex Whitaker
Alex has been involved in swimming from a young age and began working as a swim helper at the age of 14 before qualifying as a swimming teacher at 16. A former competitive swimmer with Winchester City Penguins Swimming Club, Alex achieved both county and regional qualifying times and developed a strong understanding of technique and swimmer development.
Alex enjoys teaching swimmers of all ages and abilities, from toddlers taking their first steps in the water through to more advanced swimmers looking to refine their technique. His teaching style combines fun, engaging activities with focused skill development, helping swimmers build confidence while making steady progress. He particularly enjoys helping young swimmers become comfortable and confident in the water, equipping them with skills they can enjoy throughout their lives.
Outside of teaching, Alex is studying Mechanical Engineering at university. When he is not in the pool, he can usually be found in the gym, playing rugby or football, or training in kickboxing.
Swimming Instructor
Natalie Reynolds
Natalie has been passionate about swimming for as long as she can remember. Having grown up in Hong Kong and Gibraltar, and spending much of her childhood travelling, she was always drawn to the water. She enjoyed swimming both in and out of school and began competing from a young age. Her love for the sport continued to grow, eventually leading her into a career in swimming instruction.
With over four years of teaching experience, Natalie teaches swimmers of all ages and abilities, from babies and preschool children through to adults. She has experience teaching across all stages, including Stages 8, 9 and 10, Rookie Lifeguards, adult learners, and swimmers with disabilities. Natalie is also a qualified lifeguard.
Natalie is passionate about making lessons fun, positive and supportive, creating an environment where every swimmer feels safe, confident and proud of their progress. She is committed to helping swimmers develop not only strong swimming ability, but also a lifelong love of the water and an essential life skill that will stay with them for years to come.
Swimming Instructor
Swimming InstructorAmelie Velvick
Amelie is passionate about helping swimmers build confidence, develop new skills and achieve their goals in the water. She loves getting to know both swimmers and their families and finds it incredibly rewarding to watch children progress and celebrate their successes.
Her aim is to make every lesson fun, engaging and interactive, ensuring that every swimmer feels included, supported and excited to learn. Amelie is committed to creating a positive environment where children can thrive, enjoy their swimming and develop a lifelong love of the water.
Outside of swimming, Amelie has a longstanding passion for performing arts and music. From a young age, she has enjoyed playing the piano and guitar, as well as acting and singing. She is looking forward to further developing these interests by studying Acting and Music at A-Level from September.
Olivia Young
Olivia has always loved swimming and grew up spending time both in the pool and in the sea. With three years of swimming teaching experience and a competitive swimming background, she is passionate about sharing her love of the water with others. Having recently returned to swimming while at university, she has rediscovered her enthusiasm for the sport and continues to enjoy developing her own swimming alongside teaching.
Drawing on her competitive experience, Olivia particularly enjoys working with more advanced swimmers, helping them refine their technique and achieve their full potential. One of the most rewarding aspects of teaching for her is watching swimmers grow in confidence and ability over time. Seeing the progress they make and celebrating their achievements is what makes teaching so enjoyable.
Alongside her role at The Standen Swim Academy, Olivia studies English at university. In her spare time, she enjoys playing tennis, going to the gym and exploring the outdoors through hiking.
Swimming Instructor
Ethan Skipwith
Ethan has been passionate about swimming from a young age and competed for Winchester City Swimming Club, achieving success at Regional level. Alongside his swimming background, he has extensive experience in triathlon and athletics, giving him a broad understanding of sport, fitness and performance.
Ethan's teaching style is relaxed, friendly and fun, helping children feel at ease in the water while building the confidence and skills they need to become capable swimmers. He particularly enjoys seeing swimmers progress through the stages and develop a genuine enjoyment of being in the water.
Outside of teaching, Ethan enjoys keeping fit and spending time in the gym. He has competed at a high level in both triathlon and running and was a member of the South Central Triathlon Academy and the England Athletics Youth Development Programme. He is currently studying Geography, Physical Education and Economics at Peter Symonds College, alongside a Diploma in Sporting Excellence through Loughborough University.
Swimming Instructor
Swimming InstructorGrace Negus-Skelton
Grace has experience working with swimmers of a wide range of ages and abilities. This has helped her develop a flexible and adaptable teaching style, with a particular focus on making lessons engaging, inclusive and enjoyable for every swimmer.
Having worked extensively with SEN classes and children with additional needs, Grace understands the importance of tailoring lessons to suit individual learning styles. Her teaching approach is centred around learning through play, creating a positive environment where swimmers can build confidence, develop skills and enjoy their time in the water.
A firm believer that children learn best when they are having fun, Grace is passionate about creating positive and rewarding swimming experiences that help every swimmer reach their potential while developing a lifelong love of the water.
Outside of teaching, Grace enjoys paddleboarding, spending time at the beach and is working towards her ambition of becoming a primary school teacher in the future.
Emily Russell
Emily has a passion for swimming and loves helping young swimmers develop confidence, skills and a lifelong enjoyment of the water. Having been a competitive swimmer since the age of 11, she understands the importance of good technique, perseverance and building confidence in the pool.
Since the age of 13, Emily has volunteered with her swimming club, supporting younger swimmers and helping them feel excited and positive about learning to swim. Her experience both in and out of the water has given her a strong understanding of swimmer development and the importance of creating a supportive learning environment.
Outside of swimming, Emily enjoys cooking and playing games. She is currently studying Chemistry, Mathematics, Further Mathematics and Physics at sixth form and brings the same enthusiasm and dedication to her teaching as she does to her studies.
Swimming Instructor
Emily Hughes
Emily is a friendly, calm and enthusiastic swim teacher who loves helping children build confidence and develop a lifelong love of the water. Her patient and encouraging approach helps swimmers feel relaxed, supported and excited to learn.
Emily has been swimming competitively since the age of 10 and was Senior Club Captain at Alton & District Swimming Club. She brings a wealth of technical swimming knowledge to every lesson.
Having recently completed her A Levels in PE and Psychology, alongside a BTEC in Applied Science, Emily has a real interest in child development, learning and helping every swimmer reach their potential. She will soon be starting an apprenticeship in Physiotherapy, giving her an excellent understanding of movement, technique and physical development.
With her smiley personality, calm manner and engaging teaching style, Emily creates a fun, positive environment where swimmers of all abilities can thrive and enjoy every lesson.
Swimming Instructor
Swimming InstructorIsobel Jordan
Izzy has been involved in swimming from a very young age and began assisting with swimming lessons at just 13 years old before qualifying as a swimming teacher. A former county-level swimmer, she has a lifelong passion for the water and enjoys helping swimmers develop confidence, technique and a love of the sport.
Izzy's lessons are fun, engaging and swimmer-centred, with a strong focus on creating a positive learning environment where every swimmer feels supported and encouraged to achieve their potential. She is passionate about sharing her enthusiasm for swimming and helping children become confident and capable in the water.
Outside of teaching, Izzy is studying Sports Science, Mathematics and Psychology at A-Level and hopes to go on to study Sport and Exercise Science at university. She is also a national-level runner and continues to compete regularly in both running and swimming.
Laura Andrews
Swimming Instructor and Aqua Aerobics InstructorLaura leads our popular Aquafit classes, bringing energy, enthusiasm and plenty of fun to every session. Her classes are fast-paced, welcoming and filled with laughter, creating an environment where participants can enjoy a fantastic workout while making new friends and building confidence in the water.
Known for her positive attitude and infectious sense of humour, Laura has a wonderful ability to motivate and encourage everyone, regardless of age, fitness level or previous experience. Her sessions are designed to be challenging, enjoyable and accessible, helping participants improve their fitness, strength and wellbeing while having a great time.
Outside of the pool, Laura is a self-confessed lover of ducks and everything Halloween. Whether she's planning spooky celebrations or sharing stories about her latest duck-related adventures, she always brings plenty of personality and fun wherever she goes.
Rebecca Woodford
Swimming Instructor and Aqua Aerobics InstructorBex has been passionate about swimming for as long as she can remember. Born and raised on the Isle of Wight and surrounded by water, she began her journey as a competitive swimmer, eventually becoming Captain of the Isle of Wight Swim Team. Her love of the water naturally led her into a career in swimming teaching and coaching.
Bex enjoys working with swimmers of all ages and abilities, helping them develop confidence, improve their technique and achieve their personal goals. She has extensive experience teaching both children and adults, whether they are taking their first strokes, refining their skills or overcoming a fear of the water.
With experience as both a pool and beach lifeguard, Bex is a strong advocate for water safety and understands the importance of developing safe, confident swimmers. She is also a qualified RLSS Trainer & Assessor and Rookie Lifeguard Instructor.
Alongside her swimming qualifications, Bex is an Aqua Aerobics Instructor and Personal Trainer. She loves helping people stay active and healthy and is always looking for fun, engaging ways to exercise in the water, usually accompanied by a fantastic playlist!
Bex's enthusiasm, experience and positive approach make her a popular teacher with swimmers of all ages.