STA Swimming Teacher Qualification Accredited at SCQF Level 7 In Scotland
Posted on 2nd April 2026
STA has confirmed that its new Swimming Teacher Qualification (STQ) has been accredited at Level 7 on the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) by Qualifications Scotland Accreditation, reinforcing its position as a high-quality, professionally recognised route into swimming teaching.
The qualification, titled STA Swimming Teacher at SCQF Level 7, will be implemented from 1 April 2026 and carries a total of 8 SCQF credit points.
This recognition reflects the depth of knowledge, practical competence and applied skills developed through the programme, aligning the qualification with SCQF Level 7 standards, comparable to Advanced Higher level learning in Scotland.
Developed to support the next generation of swimming teachers, the qualification has been designed to ensure learners build the skills, confidence and competence required to deliver safe, inclusive and effective lessons across the full learn to swim pathway.
As with STA’s wider qualification approach, the programme places a strong emphasis on practical delivery, supported by blended learning options, clear course structure and ongoing professional development, helping to build confident and capable teachers.
Jodie Davis, Aquatics Qualification Development Officer at STA, said this recognition reflects the strength and quality of the qualification and the work that has gone into its development.
Achieving SCQF Level 7 accreditation and credit rating provides clear assurance to employers, operators and learners in Scotland that this is a robust and professionally aligned route into the profession of swimming teaching. It also supports greater clarity and consistency across the sector, helping to strengthen workforce development and raise standards across aquatic education.
The SCQF framework supports the recognition of qualifications across Scotland by assigning both a level and credit value, enabling learners and employers to clearly understand the complexity and demand of a qualification.
The Level 7 rating highlights STA’s continued commitment to developing qualifications that meet the needs of employers, support workforce growth, and align with recognised professional standards.
With implementation from April 2026, STA will begin rolling out the qualification across its network, supporting training centres and tutors to deliver consistently high-quality training aligned to industry needs.
For more information, visit: www.sta.co.uk