Swimming Instructor Course FAQ

Straight answers to the questions people ask us most before joining a swimming instructor course in Singapore. Fees are covered in detail on the course fees page.

Eligibility

Who can join the swimming instructor course?

For the core SSI Level 1 & 2 pathway you must be at least 16, swim at least two strokes (from breaststroke, freestyle, backstroke and butterfly), and communicate clearly with swimmers. No previous teaching experience is needed.

What if I can only swim one stroke well?

Work on a second stroke before registering. A trainer has to demonstrate clearly while watching learners, so a stroke you can only just manage is not enough. If it is borderline, tell us which strokes you swim and we will advise honestly.

What do I need for the Adult or Baby specialist courses?

You must be at least 18 and have already completed SSI Swim Teacher Level 1, Level 2 and React Right.

Training and schedule

Is the course online or in person?

In person. Theory, pool sessions, React Right, attachments and assessment all happen in Singapore.

Where is the training?

Commerze@Irving, Level 3 swimming pool, about two minutes’ walk from Tai Seng MRT.

How many sessions are there?

For the core pathway: one theory session, two pool sessions and one React Right session, each 2 hours on a weekday evening (7:30–9:30pm). Then ten supervised attachments and your assessment. The Adult course is one 2-hour classroom session and one 2-hour pool session.

What happens during the attachments?

You join real lessons with a mentor. You start by observing positioning, safety checks and how the mentor explains one correction at a time, then you take on parts of the lesson yourself and get feedback. This is where most trainees discover that teaching is harder than swimming.

How long do I have to finish?

Six months from payment for the core pathway (course, attachments and assessment). One year for the Adult and Baby specialist courses.

I already have a CPR & AED certificate. Do I still attend React Right?

The registration form lets you skip React Right if your certification is valid and you can show proof.

What if I need to change a session date?

Tell us at least one day in advance. Changes with less notice incur an S$80 fee.

Assessment and certification

Who issues the certificate?

For SSI pathways, you receive the SSI Swim Teacher certification for the level or specialisation you complete. SSI (Swim Schools International) sets the training standards. The S$900 in-house course gives an in-house certificate, not SSI certification.

Does attending every session guarantee the certificate?

No. You must complete the attachments and pass the assessment, demonstrating the teaching and swimming competencies for your pathway.

Can I teach overseas with SSI certification?

It may help, but it does not by itself give you permission to teach in another country. That depends on local rules, employers, venues and insurers. Check with the destination employer first.

Do I need to renew my certification?

Renewal and active-status rules depend on the qualification and SSI’s current requirements. Ask us for the renewal timing and fees for your certification.

Jobs and pay

Will I get a coaching job after the course?

Not guaranteed. Eligible graduates may ask for an optional interview for part-time lesson assignments with the affiliated swim school, Swim2u. Whether you get assignments depends on your assessment, suitability, the locations and times you can teach, and demand.

How much do swimming instructors earn?

For assigned lessons with the affiliated swim school, the published standard coach rate is S$35–S$70 per 30- or 45-minute lesson, reviewed after 160 hours based on performance. Your actual income depends on how many lessons you can take on. Elsewhere, pay varies by employer.

Can I get my course fee back?

There is a conditional reimbursement: after completing 160 coaching hours of assigned lessons, the course fee is reimbursed in full, with no time limit on the 160 hours. It is not automatic and not guaranteed – see how the reimbursement works.

Where else can SSI swim teachers work?

Swim schools, clubs, condominium and private lessons, and community programmes. Each employer sets its own requirements, so ask what qualifications and background checks they need.

Payment and refunds

How do I pay?

Complete the registration form, choose your dates and select Proceed to Payment to pay online. We email confirmation within three days of successful registration and payment.

Can I use SkillsFuture or pay in instalments?

No instalment plans or financial assistance are offered, and no SkillsFuture or government subsidy is published for these courses. Ask us before paying if this matters to you.

Can I get a refund or transfer my place?

No. All payments are non-refundable and non-transferable, apart from the conditional reimbursement above.

Still have a question?

WhatsApp or call +65 8805 8716, or email info@swimminginstructorcourse.sg.

Prepared by Alvin, Swimming Teachers Academy. Answers checked against our course pages and registration form. Last reviewed: 30 September 2026.