As you may be aware, Letchworth Amateur Swimming Club is currently working towards Swim 21 accreditation.
Swim 21 is the ASA's Club Development module - a planning tool that enables clubs to help swimmers, coaches, teachers and administrators to achieve their full potential.
It particularly focuses on the needs of the swimmers - striving to provide them with the best possible support and environment.
Swim 21 Accreditation is a 'Quality mark'. It recognises nationally and regionally the clubs that are committed to providing safe, effective and quality services for the benefit of their members.
There are 4 different levels of accreditation (Teaching, Skill Development, Competitive Development & Performance), based on the amount of water time per athlete per week and the level of Teacher/Coach qualifications.
The process of receiving accreditation is a long one. Unfortunately, during the early stages of this, the ASA restructured the Swim 21 criteria, meaning LASC had to start all over again.
There are 5 Phases involved in gaining Swim 21 accreditation. These are:-
LASC is working towards the Teaching level of accreditation.
The Club is currently on Phase 4 of the process which involves the production of an Action Plan
to address development needs raised by the Audit completed in Phase 2.
This is the longest phase of the process and involves the gathering of a large amount of information and evidence. When completed, this will be submitted to the Regional Swim 21 Assessment Panel.
When all criteria has been met, the Club will be awarded the ASA Certificate of Swim 21 Accreditation which is valid for 4 years.