Christine Thompson Fellow Institute Of Swimming (FIOS)
I started teaching swimming in 1989 with the local Hemel Hempstead Swimming Club where I learned a vast number of skills and quickly became passionate about the sport. In 1999 I received a Diploma in Sports Psychology,(Newcastle University). I Obtained a Certificate in Education (Post 16) from the University of Hertfordshire and my club coach qualification in 2002. I have regularly attended Child Protection workshops hosted by various organisations, and I always hold a current National Rescue Award for Teachers and Coaches.
In September 1992 I set up the Swim School (Starting Blocks) at The Cavendish School and I then added the roles of co-ordinating the swimming at the two local Primary Schools, Kings Langley & St Pauls Chipperfield following this I worked over the following Summer terms teaching in the outdoor pools in other local schools. I continued to gain more experience, In 1995 I took on some of the Learn to swim with the local Council in Kings Langley (Now Sportspace Kings Langley) and in 2000 I took on a range of Adult classes at the Local Pool.
From 2001 I was Chief Coach at the Berkhamsted Sports Centre Swimming Club whilst also managing a group of Junior swimmers at Hemel Hempstead Swimming Club.
Currently, I still Co-ordinate and Teach at Starting Blocks Swim School. I teach various ability groups at Sportspace Hemel Hempstead, (including Adult Classes Beginners to Advanced) I Coach a junior group at Berkhamsted Sports Centre Swimming Club and also a junior early competitive class at Hemel Hempstead Swimming Club.
I believe that everyone has the ability to survive in the water and I believe that the sport offers a valuable life skill. There is a class out there somewhere that fits an individual need whether it is for a nervous beginner or a skilled ex competitive swimmer, I will always do my best to find one for them.