Emma is our longest-serving teacher working for Puddle Ducks for over 13 years, starting her journey as a customer to a Poolside Assistant then launching the Swim Academy programme for Worcestershire, becoming a Swim Academy Teacher, Emma went on to train in Baby and Pre-School swimming, and now teaches at Stourport Manor, Wollescote Primary School and Barnt Green, as well as covering classes across all local pools.
Over the years, Emma has become a familiar and much-loved face to many families in the area, but her passion for swimming goes far beyond the poolside.
A proud mum of three, Emma’s children have all progressed through the Puddle Ducks programmes and are now thriving swimmers at a competitive level.
Her eldest, Harry (18) began swimming with Puddle Ducks at just six weeks old. After completing the full programme, he now trains with Bromsgrove Swimming Club, 11.5 hours a week and competing at weekends. Harry regularly takes part in county and regional competitions. Harry has progressed himself has been award club captain and is also a swimming teacher at Bromsgrove swimming club, encouraging young swimmers to achieve there swimming goals.
Kate (14) has also followed a similar path, progressing through both the Puddle Ducks Baby & Pre-School and Swim Academy programmes, where she earned her 10 and 25 distance awards. She now also trains 8.5 hours a week with Bromsgrove Swimming Club, competing in galas and open meets, and representing the club in county and regional events.
Meanwhile, Lucy (11) continues to build her love for swimming after completing the Puddle Ducks journey and achieving her early distance awards. She now represents the Bromsgrove swimming club at galas and open meets. Lucy swims 7.5 hours per week.
Emma believes the foundations built in early swimming lessons are key to her children’s success, both in and out of the water.
“Swimming is not just my job - it’s a massive part of our family life, and something I absolutely love,” Emma said.
“Joining a club and swimming competitively has been an essential part of my children’s journey. They look forward to every session, have built a wonderful social circle, and it’s helped develop their confidence, motivation and self-esteem as well as their fitness".
She added: “My children wouldn’t have the confidence, ability and technique they do today if it wasn’t for the start they gained at Puddle Ducks. I love seeing the children I teach grow in confidence in the water, knowing they are gaining skills that keep them safe, and may even take them on to swim competitively.”