History

Fiona Skinner Learn to Swim

Fiona Skinner Learn to Swim has had a strong reputation within the Geelong community for over 15 years with its’ high quality technical swimming program and professionalism, whilst providing a fun, safe and engaging environment.

The fact the business has undertaken very little advertising, formal promotion & hasn’t had a website (previously) is testament of its standing in the Geelong community. Swimmers have been largely referred to Fiona Skinner Learn to Swim via word of mouth & personal recommendations. The swim school has developed from a staff of 6 to over 20 and is continuing to grow organically with over 800 students currently.

Fiona is a former swimmer and life member of the Geelong Swimming Club. She began swimming at the club at 15 years of age where she competed at a national level. Fiona holds a wealth of knowledge with over 30 years’ experience some of which was gained as a volunteer coach for 15 years within the Geelong Swimming Clubs’ junior program.

Fiona has always valued the ability to learn from others, and to mentor young people. She believes each child can learn to swim, if they are taught in the correct way – and knows that this can be different for each child. Fiona has high standards for her swimming teachers and encourages them to be whole-hearted, enthusiastic and to create a healthy and happy learning environment. Fiona remains in the business in the capacity of Teacher and Mentor of staff.

Geelong Swimming Club

The Geelong Swimming Club has a long and proud history since it began in 1882. Our mission is to;” promote excellence in competitive swimming performance and enjoyment in participation; ensuring that all swimmers and families involved in our club are welcomed and included”

The Club has a strong reputation for producing some of the greatest competitive swimmers within Country Victoria, with many competing at National and International Competitions. Whilst our focus centres around pool swimming, we also offer opportunities for open water and surf swimming. The club fosters inclusion with a respected multi-class program for those swimmers with disabilities. Our club values are involvement, opportunity, excellence and enjoyment through the sport of swimming.

Before the purchase of the Fiona Skinner Swim School in December 2019, the Geelong Swimming Club had a strong, long-standing connection to the swim school. The relationship acted as a pathway to competitive swimming for many of its students – many going on to be very successful. The relationship also included a mentor-like connection, with Coaches and Teachers collaborating to improve their own instructional skills.

Our Vision is: “The Geelong Swimming Club will be widely recognised as the premier swimming club in regional Victoria, known for its performance and participation pathways and its commitment to excellence”