In a remarkable journey of perseverance and passion, a woman from Bridgwater has turned her ambition of becoming a swimming instructor into reality, despite encountering significant challenges along the way.
Emily Gold, who is autistic, took a bold step by enrolling in a level one swimming assistant course at a leisure center in Bridgwater, Somerset. However, she faced hurdles that made it difficult for her to complete the course, particularly because she sometimes experiences challenges with speech and language.
But here’s where it gets truly inspiring: Discovery, a charity dedicated to supporting individuals with autism and learning disabilities, stepped in. They approached the 1610 Trinity Sports and Leisure Centre, which recognized Emily’s potential and agreed to hire her as a trainee teacher while she continued her education. Fast forward to August, and Emily proudly earned her qualification and now works there full-time.
"I wanted to be a swimming instructor because it was going to be very interesting," Emily shared, reflecting on her motivation.
The National Autistic Society describes autism as a lifelong neurodivergence and disability impacting how individuals perceive and interact with the world around them. It exists on a spectrum, meaning it encompasses a diverse array of traits that differ from person to person. For Emily, this means sometimes facing difficulties with verbal communication, but she was determined to enhance her skills in this area.
To earn her qualification, Emily completed two placements and underwent extensive training both in the water and poolside. This rigorous training included leading swimming demonstrations, physically supporting children as they learned to swim, and providing verbal encouragement during their lessons.
Emily expressed her joy in working with children, stating that they "always" enjoy their time with her, and she finds the experience deeply fulfilling.
Jenny Hughes, the swimming coordinator at the center, played a crucial role in guiding Emily through her journey. "She’s really good at listening and will support children in the water," Hughes said. Furthermore, she noted that Emily benefited from exposure to various teaching styles, which enriched her learning experience.
Kirsteen Middleton from Discovery emphasized the charity’s commitment to helping individuals secure paid and sustainable employment. She explained that during Emily's training, they worked to simplify the theoretical exam requirements by breaking down complex jargon, ensuring Emily could successfully pass it.
"That is always our aim, and we have succeeded with Emily, so we're really happy about that," Middleton concluded, highlighting the collaborative effort involved in Emily’s success.
This heartwarming story raises important questions about inclusivity and support for individuals with disabilities in pursuing their dreams. What are your thoughts on the importance of tailored support systems for people facing similar challenges? Share your views in the comments below!
