New vocational training for swimming instructors aims to tackle shortages in Amsterdam pools: We hope for hundreds of applicants

Persistent staffing shortages in Amsterdam pools, which previously forced local facilities like the Brediusbad to close, have prompted the city to launch a new vocational swimming instructor program. Developed by the ROC of Amsterdam-Flevoland in collaboration with local aquatic centers, this initiative allows students to combine paid work in a pool with one day of schooling per week. This flexible approach, offering an MBO diploma in one to three years, is designed to attract career changers by providing official certification while maintaining employment.

City officials, including Alderman Sofyan Mbarki, emphasized the critical importance of having qualified staff to ensure public safety in a water-rich city. Starting in January, fourteen to twenty new students will be placed at various participating pools across the region. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, possess a swimming certificate, and undergo a background check. Organizers hope this structured path will help stabilize the workforce and guarantee consistent operating hours for city swimming facilities.