Shaw Method Teacher Training in London
Train to teach swimming in a more mindful, effective and human way.
The Shaw Method Teacher Training offers a unique opportunity to deepen your understanding of movement, water and learning — while developing the skills to guide others with confidence, clarity and care.
Rooted in the principles of the Alexander Technique, this internationally respected approach helps swimmers of all abilities move with ease, efficiency and enjoyment.
Upcoming dates:
Teacher Training 2026 – Foundation
Date : 11 May 2026 – 15 May 2026
Times : 17.00 – 21.30
Why Train in the Shaw Method?
The Shaw Method is not just about technique — it’s about transforming how people experience the water.
Developed by Steven Shaw, the method reimagines the biomechanics of the four strokes, promoting optimal body use both in and out of the water.
Through this training, you will learn to:
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Teach swimming with clarity, structure and sensitivity
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Help swimmers overcome fear, tension and limiting habits
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Apply principles of awareness, balance and coordination
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Guide students using hands-on, experiential learning
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Support long-term health, confidence and enjoyment in the water
Who Is This Training For?
This training is ideal for those who:
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Are confident in the water and curious to deepen their understanding
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Want to become a swimming teacher or expand their existing practice
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Work in movement, therapy, coaching or wellbeing
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Are drawn to the Alexander Technique or mindful approaches to learning
You’ll likely resonate if you:
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Communicate clearly and naturally put people at ease
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Enjoy a process-led approach to learning
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Have patience (with yourself and others)
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Are comfortable with hands-on guidance and physical touch
What Makes This Training Different?
Unlike conventional swim teaching qualifications, the Shaw Method is:
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Experiential first — you learn through your own body and movement
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Hands-on — guidance in the water is central to the process
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Process-driven — focused on awareness, not performance
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Holistic — benefits extend beyond swimming into everyday movement
Each day combines:
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Pool-based learning (minimum ~3 hours)
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Classroom theory
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Dry-land movement work
This integrated approach supports deep, embodied learning.
Course Structure
The training is delivered in three progressive stages:
Foundation Stage
Learn the core principles of the Shaw Method through all four strokes.
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Build your own swimming through structured progressions
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Develop awareness of movement, breath and coordination
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Assessment: demonstration of Shaw Method swimming
Level 1 – Teaching Skills
Learn how to teach the method effectively.
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The five teaching protocols:
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Explanation
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Demonstration
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Guidance
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Solution-based feedback
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Creating space for exploration
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Introduction to SwimCheck assessments
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Develop hands-on teaching skills
Level 2 – Application & Integration
Apply your skills across a wide range of swimmers.
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Work with beginners, fearful swimmers and advanced athletes
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Adapt teaching for different needs and conditions
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Deliver lessons with confidence and clarity
Self-Guided Study & Practice
Between modules, you will:
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Develop your own swimming (minimum ~40 hours)
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Teach practice lessons to real swimmers
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Write case studies
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Assist and observe experienced teachers
This ensures you graduate with real-world experience and confidence.
Assessment & Certification
Assessment is ongoing and supportive, including:
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Video analysis of your swimming
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Written case studies
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Short written tests
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Final practical teaching assessment
You will receive continuous feedback throughout the training.
Beyond the Training
Graduates go on to:
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Teach Shaw Method swimming independently
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Integrate it into existing coaching or therapy work
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Build their own client base or school
The Art of Swimming is an established and respected brand, offering a strong foundation for your teaching journey.