From non-swimmer to certified lifeguard—fast

An Exeter Leisure worker who was barely able to swim fewer than two years ago has now become a fully qualified lifeguard and swim teacher.

25-year-old Paige has impressed others with her resilience and determination in her new career, which not long ago seemed somewhat of an impossibility.

Paige began working for Exeter City Council in 2020 when she started as a receptionist at Pyramids Leisure Centre.

When the facility closed down to make way for the modernised St Sidwell’s Leisure Centre, Paige transferred roles to work in the creche, otherwise known as a daytime nursery.

Unfortunately, this job proved unsustainable. 

When Paige received an offer for a lifeguard position, she faced the unavoidable issue of barely being able to swim a length.

Unwilling to see this as a setback, Paige immediately began learning how to swim with only four weeks left before her life-saving qualification test.

She said: “At the time I was in the process of buying my first house, and I needed to ensure I had something secure, but my biggest worry was that I could barely swim!” 

However, she approached the task with dogged determination.

After a combination of teaching herself and enlisting the help of one of the Exeter Leisure lifeguards, Paige passed the internationally recognised National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) first time.

She explained: “After I had completed my course, some other job opportunities came up (a swimming instructor and a swimming coordinator). I thought if I could teach myself to swim in such a short period of time, I could teach other people too.

“I’ve always loved working with children, so I applied for both, and I am now a fully qualified level two teacher, and I manage the swimming lessons at Exeter Leisure.”

Praising Paige’s character, Charlotte Tregedeon, General Manager at Exeter Leisure, said: “She has not let minor setbacks get in her way and has embraced opportunities even when they have been out of her comfort zone.”

Cllr Duncan Wood, Lead Councillor for Leisure Services & Healthy Living, added: “Paige’s story is a wonderful example of triumph through adversity. A number of times in her career she was not willing to admit defeat and instead strive to learn new skills. 

“She is a fantastic asset to Exeter Leisure, and we’re proud to have her onboard.”