The only Baby Selfrescue instructor training in the EU
The Baby Self Rescue instructor training at SwimSafe Academy is the only programme of its kind in the EU. You will learn to teach babies aged 4 to 12 months to save themselves in the water — using a proven method developed by Hanneke van Tol. Safety and the well-being of the child are central. Moreover, you will work in a group of no more than 2 trainees, ensuring you receive the personal guidance you deserve. That is why driven instructors from across Europe choose SwimSafe Academy. Are you ready to pass on this knowledge?
- ✅ Maximum 2 trainees per group
- ✅ Personal guidance from start to certification
- ✅ The only training of its kind in the EU
What do you learn during the Baby Selfrescue instructor training?
The training is carefully structured in three steps and provides you with everything you need to get started independently and with confidence. Upon completion, you will be fully qualified as a Baby Selfrescue Specialist and able to teach babies aged 4 to 12 months to save themselves in the water.
📖 Online Preparation
You begin with a comprehensive online preparation phase. You will receive access to the detailed SwimSafe Academy instructor manual — a complete reference work covering all theory on child development, behaviour, communication, safety and the SwimSafe Method. This ensures you enter the water well-prepared.
🏊 In-Water Training
Next comes the 4-week in-water training under the personal supervision of Hanneke van Tol. You will work with children across all 3 levels and learn how to apply the SwimSafe Method in practice — with attention to the individual child, space for play and a safe learning environment. You will get started immediately and gradually develop your own style as an instructor.
📝 3 Assignments
After the in-water training, you will work independently on three practical assignments. You have up to six months to complete these. Hanneke remains available as your coach — for questions, reflection and an outside perspective. This allows you to grow at your own pace into a fully independent Self Rescue Specialist.
Online preparation
You start with an online preparation to gain all the necessary information. A detailed manual will provide you with all needed information.
In water training
Are you well underway? Then you are ready for the 4 weeks In-water training! Geboren Zwemmers takes care of baby's on all 3 levels and provides a safe learning environment. You will start immediately and we will provide you with all the necessary tools.
5 assignments
After the 4 weeks In-water training, a final and summarizing end presentation will follow. We go through all the information once again, but now based on your gained practical experience! After that, you can get started all by yourself! You will start with 3 assignments, which will take up to a maximum of a half a year. Hanneke will be your helping hand and coach!
Spreading the method
To ensure an optimal learning curve, Hanneke will remain involved as your coach. During the preparation and the 4 weeks in water training, you will lay a strong foundation. Subsequently, you will strengthen this base by gaining experience! Quick feedback from Hanneke in case of emerging questions, will help you to keep improving with huge plunges.
The Baby Selfrescue instructor training is offered twice a year. With a maximum of 2 places per group, Hanneke can give you the personal attention and guidance you deserve. We strongly recommend registering your interest in good time — places fill up quickly.
📅 Next start date:
February 2027
Would you like to start sooner? Get in touch and we will plan a start date that works for you. Don’t wait too long!
What's in it for me?
The training at SwimSafe Academy is a complete package. Here is what you receive:
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📘 Highly detailed instructor manual — covering theory on child development, behaviour, communication and the SwimSafe Method
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🎓 Marketing materials: certificates for all 5 levels and a personalised reward system
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💡 Practical tips for building a successful swimming school
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🏊 4-week in-water training under the personal supervision of Hanneke van Tol
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💬 Online aftercare coaching: share all your questions and experiences with Hanneke and build expertise together
FAQ — Frequently asked questions
❓ What qualifications do I need?
You must be able to provide a valid First Aid certificate. Additional (pedagogical) qualifications are an advantage. Working experience with children is a must. Not sure whether you qualify? Get in touch and we will discuss it together.
❓ How long does the training take in total?
The training consists of an online preparation phase, followed by a 4-week in-water training and three practical assignments. You have up to six months to complete the assignments, allowing you to grow at your own pace.
❓ Can I combine the training with a (part-time) job?
Yes, absolutely. The online preparation is done at your own pace. The in-water training takes place on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays in Berg en Dal, making it easy to plan around your other commitments. We also offer the option to stay at the hotel on site — very convenient if you are travelling from further away.
❓ Where does the in-water training take place?
The training takes place at Fletcher Hotel Erica, Molenbosweg 17, Berg en Dal. You will work with real children in a real teaching environment, allowing you to gain hands-on practical experience straight away.
❓ How many places are available per training?
There are a maximum of 2 places per training. This is a deliberate choice — it ensures you receive the personal attention and guidance you need.
❓ Is this the only training of its kind in Europe?
Yes. SwimSafe Academy is the only provider in the EU offering this training in this way. You do not need to travel to the US to become a Self Rescue Specialist. This makes it a unique opportunity to specialise — at a fair investment.
❓ What can I do after completing the training?
Upon completion, you will be fully qualified as a Self Rescue Specialist. You will be able to independently teach Self Rescue swimming lessons to children aged 16 months to 6 years. You can also start your own swimming school or expand your existing offering with a proven method.
Who is the Baby Selfrescue instructor training for?
The training is suitable for anyone who wants to teach children to save themselves in the water. Whether you are:
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A parent who loves the water and wants to inspire others
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A healthcare professional who wants to guide children in and around the water
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A self-employed professional looking to expand your offering with a unique, proven method
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A swimming school owner who wants to reach more children with a method that truly works
In short: the Baby Selfrescue instructor training at SwimSafe Academy is for you.
Take the plunge! Contact us:
Are you as excited as we are? Great! Leave your contact details below and we will contact you as soon as possible for a personal introduction!
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I myself have a background in water relaxation, pre- and post-natal exercises in water and recently I was also trained in water habituation and swimming lessons to children. Water habituation, moving in water and self-reliance are an essential part of the development of children for me, which is why this training has been on my wish list for quite some time!
- Ilse Certified Smart Fish Instructor
