Join one of our COVID-secure classes at Risebridge Farm

Meet the Teachers at Risebridge Farm

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  Janina (Senior Teacher)

  Mondays

  I have always loved to swim, I just love the feeling of being in the water.

  I started both my boys swimming when they were 12 weeks old and found it to be a beautiful experience (they are 4 and 6 now and both adore the water too).

  I started with Puddle Ducks as a Poolside Assistant and then went on to do my teacher training the first chance I could.

  It’s an amazing job on so many levels; from seeing the babies relaxing in the water for the first time with their carers, to seeing Dippers achieve fully independent swims is just so fulfilling. I also love the fact that we not only teach children swimming techniques but also how to keep themselves safe in the water – I am so lucky to be able to do a job I love that also allows me so much time with my family.

• 

  Laura (Senior Teacher)

  Fridays

  I have always loved being in and around water, as a young child I loved collecting pennies from the bottom of the pool that my Dad used to throw in.

  After being spotted aged 8 by a diving coach throwing myself into the pool in a somersault at the local leisure centre I was asked to join the local diving team. This soon led to County and National teams where I won National medals and a couple of National titles.

  At the age of 16 it was time to choose between my two loves - diving and musical theatre, I chose the latter and went on to train at London Studio Centre and perform in many shows.

  After my daughter was born I knew I wanted her to have the same confidence, respect and love of the water that I have. A friend of mine recommended Puddle Ducks and I have not looked back!

  I instantly fell in love with the whole concept and I knew I had to be a part of it. I count myself so lucky to be able to do a job that I love, find so rewarding and teaches an invaluable life skill.

  I'll look forward to seeing you soon x

• 

  Rebecca (Lead Senior Teacher)

  Saturday Mornings

  I have always loved the water, one of my very early memories is being in my backyard, in a huge paddling pool and going under the water for the first time, all by myself. After that my parents had trouble keeping me out of the water.

  By the age of 11 I was training at squad level and regularly competing for my local team, my school and at county championships. I discovered lifesaving when I was about 14 and started to participate in both pool and open water competitions, my spare time was filled with swimming in one guise or another. Unfortunately, this all took a dramatic halt after I developed a knee injury at the age of 16.

  I then had my daughter in 2012. After taking her swimming, seeing how much she loved it, I knew I had to become a baby and pre-school teacher.

  I feel very privileged that I have joined the Puddle Ducks team, not only do I get to do something I love, I get to share with parents the joy they have when their child learns a new swimming skill. There are not many jobs in the world which can be as rewarding.

  As a mum myself I understand the importance of teaching my little one to love and enjoy the water - but I also realise that allowing them the freedom to truly develop their skills can be daunting for mum (or dad). It certainly was for me when I submerged Lyra for the first time!

  I think this understanding enables me to help my mums and dads feel as comfortable as possible with their little ones in the water.

  I look forward to spending time with you soon!

• 

  Stefanie

  Sundays

  I have 2 children, a 4 and a 2 year old, and I know how important it is that they enjoy being in the water, having fun and learning a life skill also.

  My previous occupation was Cabin Crew for 15 years at Monarch Airlines.  When I left two years ago I made the choice to be a stay at home mum.  I missed being around people and always felt I wanted to teach younger children, so when this job came up I thought it was a great opportunity.

  I enjoy being in water and I love that I can teach a really important life skill in such a fun way, using ryhmes and songs.  It is energetic which the kids love too.  I also like the Puddle Ducks child led approach, supporting each child individually.

  I can't wait to teach your little ones in one of my classes very soon and have lots of fun with you!