Meet The Teachers

Who are we?

Madeline came to the UK from South Africa in 2003.

A former competitive swimmer, she has been coaching and teaching for several years. She is very passionate about swimming as a sport but also cannot stress enough how important it is as a life skill.


Being a reluctant swimmer Jacqi realised her toddlers were picking up on her fear of water and she had to take drastic action!

Having a fear of going under water she decided to do the RLSS Bronze Medallion. She spent some of the sessions in tears but overcame her fear and passed the exam.

She was then asked by her son’s school swimming teacher if she would like to go in the water and assist with school swimming lessons. Having two children competing with Norwich Penguins, Jacqi found herself being encouraged to do her ASA qualifications and the rest is history!

Swimcats teachers must have ASA qualifications, be CRB (Criminal Records  Bureau) checked, follow ASA Child Protection Procedures (including attending workshops), take part in Continuted Professional Development and be members of either IOS (Institute of Swimming) or BSCTA (British Swimming Coaches & Teachers Association).

Other Swimcats teachers are: (from the back right-left) Sarah Chalmers, Iain Chalmers, Beth Doggett, Matthew Allen, Hannah Fitzpatrick, Steve Fowler (front row left to right) Dave Cross, Jenni Picken, Sam Woodger, Jess Ashworth, Josh McAleer & Robyn Donaldson, also Sabrina Shrestha - not on photograph