CONFIDENCE - COMMUNITY - ADVENTURE
WHY WE EXIST
Local need. Shared purpose.
Where someone lives, the support they need or what they can afford should not determine whether they can participate, progress or feel safer in water.
SwimWise grew from a clear local need: more inclusive access to swimming, clearer routes to progress and provision designed to last. We connect what people need now with the skills, partnerships and infrastructure that will support swimming in our community for the long term.
THE PEOPLE BEHIND SWIMWISE
Different routes. Shared standards.
SwimWise Scotland is led by directors Sarah Wiseman and Alysha Macpherson. Their professional backgrounds and experiences differ, but they share a commitment to creating safe, inclusive, and lasting opportunities in and around water.
Sarah Wiseman
Director
Sarah brings experience in swimming teaching and coaching, open-water safety, regulated training, quality assurance and workforce development. Her approach combines high standards and clear systems with practical support to help people learn and progress.
Alysha Macpherson
Director
Alysha is a primary teacher and internationally experienced swimming teacher. She brings an adaptable, practical and people-focused approach, with a strong understanding of how individuals learn, build confidence and need different levels of support.
WHAT WE BRING
Local knowledge. International experience. Shared standards.
Between us, we bring experience from swimming pools, classrooms, open water and communities in the Highlands and beyond. It shapes how we teach, make decisions and build opportunities designed to last.
PEOPLE AND PROGRESSION
Teaching, coaching and individual development across swimming, open water and aquatic education.
SAFETY AND PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS
Water safety, regulated training, quality assurance and responsible, systems-led delivery.
COMMUNITY AND INFRASTRUCTURE
Partnerships, workforce development and practical provision are designed to meet local needs and last.
WHAT WE’RE BUILDING TOWARDS
A permanent home for swimming in our community.
Our long-term ambition is to create a lasting aquatic and multisport home for our community — a place where swimming, coaching, education, water safety, participation and workforce development can sit together under one roof.
We are exploring the spaces, partnerships and funding that could make this possible, while continuing to strengthen the programmes and people that will bring it to life.