ASSA and Western Sydney University bring the science of child development to the heart of swim teaching.
Swim teaching is more than teaching strokes – it’s teaching children. Their readiness, emotions, behaviour, sensory needs, motivation and communication all shape how they learn in the water. For that reason, the Australian Swim Schools Association (ASSA) and Western Sydney University have partnered to create the Child Development Series for Swim Schools, launching 15 January 2026.
Designed specifically for swim schools and aquatic educators globally, this five-part webinar series brings together developmental science and everyday lesson delivery. Each session integrates evidence-based frameworks including neuroplasticity, executive function, emotional regulation, sensory processing, play-based learning and Universal Design for Learning (UDL).
The goal is simple: to help educators better understand the children in front of them – and to improve learning conditions, engagement and confidence across swim programs.
ASSA CEO Luke Daly explains the importance of this work:
“Understanding how children grow, think and feel in the water fundamentally shapes how we teach. Evidence-based training strengthens educator capability and improves learning for children in every setting.”
The series is led by Dr Nicole Peel, Senior Lecturer in Recreation Therapy and specialist in child development, aquatic therapy and inclusive program design, supported by Dr Michelle O’Shea, a scholar in gender equity and community participation in aquatic environments.
Dr Peel says that developmental knowledge has a direct impact on teaching practice:
“When swim teachers recognise readiness, emotion and motivation, they teach with more clarity – and children learn with more confidence.”
Gender and inclusion scholar Dr Michelle O’Shea adds.
“Water should be a place where every child belongs. This training helps make that a reality.”
Dr Nicole Peel PHD
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Dr Nicole Peel
Senior Lecturer in Recreation Therapy, Western Sydney University. Specialist in child development, aquatic therapy, inclusive program design and developmental behaviour.
Read Nicole's full bio.
Dr Michelle O’Shea
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Dr Michelle O’Shea
Senior Lecturer and gender equity scholar focusing on participation, health and inclusion in sport and aquatic environments.
Read Michelle's full bio.For swim teachers, coordinators and aquatic professionals seeking to elevate instructional quality, this series offers a robust, research-aligned professional development pathway.
QUICK FACTS
- Series Title: ASSA + WSU Child Development Series for Swim Schools
- Launch Date: 15 January 2026
- Format: Five 90-minute webinars + Q&A + recordings
- Access: Open globally; discounted for ASSA members
- Core Topics: Developmental milestones, behaviour, sensory needs, motivation, inclusion, family communication
- Lead Facilitator: Dr Nicole Peel PHD
- Secondary Facilitator: Dr Michelle O’Shea
- Professional Development Hours: 7.5
- Certificate: Co-branded PD certificate
- Partnership: Australian Swim Schools Association × Western Sydney University
- Webpage: australianswimschools.org.au/child_development
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