After a career as a Neonatal Transport Nurse at St Mary’s Hospital in Manchester, Belinda Wyatt could have retired quietly. But when she left nursing at 60, she wasn't done making a difference. Inspired by her love of swimming and the memory of her dad, a regular at the 6:30am lane sessions, she trained as a Lifeguard at Glossop Pool.
“My dad swam every morning, and it was so important to him. Training as a lifeguard felt like a tribute to that, and a great way to keep active, while funding my hobbies,” says Belinda.
A year later, an opportunity emerged that would bring her decades of healthcare experience into a whole new space.
A new chapter in the pool
When Swim Coordinator Jane suggested Belinda consider becoming a swimming teacher for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), she didn’t say yes straight away.
“I knew it would need time, dedication, and care. If I was going to commit, I wanted to do it well and give it the respect it deserves.”
Belinda went on to complete her Swim England Level 1 and 2 teaching qualifications, and began building a new knowledge base around the varied needs of SEND swimmers. Having previously worked as an Occupational Therapist for 15 years, she brought invaluable insight to the role, but still, she wanted more.
“I discovered an amazing programme called Swim Angelfish, run by an OT and physiotherapist in the US. Their training really shaped my approach and helped me understand how water can empower children in ways that land sometimes can’t.”
More than just swimming
The sessions prioritise not just movement and fun, but also vital water safety skills. From practising safe jumping techniques to calling for help, Belinda builds these life skills into every class, whatever a child’s ability.
Behind the scenes, constant communication with families is key.
“I speak with parents on poolside, over email, phone, text, whatever works for them. I want to understand how each child communicates, how they’re feeling, what’s going on at school or home. If parents agree, I also liaise with teachers and therapists. The more I know, the better I can support that child.”
And the feedback? Smiles in the water, thank-you cards, and messages that remind her just how powerful this work is.
Reflecting on her sessions, Belinda acknowledges they may not always look conventional from the outside.
“It might seem like organised chaos at times! But then I step back and see what each child has achieved - confidence, connection, joy. We don’t force a rigid structure; we create a space where children can learn and explore in their own way.”
It’s that ethos of freedom, safety, and celebration that makes MyActive Glossop’s SEND swimming programme so special.
Due to the personalised nature of our SEND swimming lessons, spaces are limited and currently fully booked. However, we do operate a waiting list, and we’ll always let you know as soon as a suitable space becomes available.
We’re also actively looking into ways to expand the programme and offer more SEND sessions in the near future.
Want to know more?
Contact MyActive Glossop to ask about SEND Swimming Lessons or our next Family Swim session.
