STA POOL PLANT – NEW YEAR, NEW POOL
New Year, New Pool – Turning Resolutions Into Reality Luke Griffiths, STA’s Technical Qualifications and Business Development Manager highlights some considerations, technical requirements and benefits of owning a swim school pool.
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s the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, millions of people around the world make resolutions for the year ahead. These resolutions often revolve around health, fitness and personal growth. How about all three? It may be ambitious but, in this article, we will explore how to turn your New Year’s resolutions into reality. STA and SPATA have worked closely over the past decade to inform STA members of the technical requirements and the benefits of owning their own swimming pool venue. We have done this through various workshops, seminars, conferences, as well as developing factsheets such as the M99 Pools for Swim Schools Factsheet. Several STA swim schools have taken the plunge. But although, the interest is always there, for most it remains a pipedream due to three common but significant barriers: • Business planning • Access to funding • Suitable land, premises and design.
BUSINESS PLANNING Setting up a new swim school and pool business requires meticulous business planning to ensure its success. The foundation of a successful swim school begins with a well thought out business plan. Start by conducting thorough market research to understand the demand for swimming lessons in your area, identify your target audience, and assess the competition. To start the process there are many free business plan templates available online. But to be taken seriously by lenders you are advised to work with an accountant or business planner to produce accurate cash flow forecasts, profit & loss and balance sheets. Professional financial and technical advice cannot be underestimated. The business plan must be accurate and not speculative with all financial aspects in place. Financial planning is vital. Calculate the
Setting up a new swim school and pool business requires meticulous business planning to ensure its success” 36 December 2023 SPN 36_SPN_December_2023_STA.indd 36
startup costs, including pool construction or renovation, maintenance, staffing, equipment, insurance and other expenses. Create a detailed budget and revenue projections for the first few years to ensure you can cover your costs and eventually make a profit. Operational planning is another critical aspect. Define your swimming programme and safety procedures. Hiring and training qualified staff is essential to provide highquality lessons and facilities. STA has a range of aquatic qualifications to service the needs of the swim school, from swimming teacher, lifeguard, first-aid, to pool plant operator qualifications. Developing a marketing strategy to promote your swim school is also important and this may include online advertising, having a social media presence and creating partnerships with local schools or community organisations. Additionally, legal and regulatory considerations must not be overlooked. Ensure compliance with safety regulations. As an independent swim school, you might also want to consider becoming a STA Swim Star Swim School; the programme recognises your commitment to maintaining the highest standards of health and safety, business procedures, teaching and customer service. Finally, monitor and adjust your business plan regularly as your swim school grows, adapting to changing market conditions and customer feedback to achieve long-term success.
ACCESS TO FUNDING Access to funding for building or renovating a swim school pool is a crucial factor in realising the dream of owning and operating your own swim school pool. Securing the necessary financial resources often involves a multifaceted approach. Swim schools can explore options such as investing their own capital, government grants, private investors, plus partnerships with local community organisations or with pool installers. Additionally, banks and building societies may offer commercial mortgages, loans or lines of credit specifically tailored for projects like pool construction which offer social value. Demonstrating the educational and community benefits of the swim school, along with a well-structured business plan, can enhance the chances of obtaining funding.
Asset finance is another consideration. Instead of paying the full amount up-front when buying or replacing items, asset finance allows you to spread the costs over time. Monthly payments make it easier to manage the costs of large purchases without tying up cash. This is important for when you are considering what type of pool to go for. For example a concrete pool tank would not be eligible for asset finance but a steel framed pool that can be dismantled and reassembled elsewhere could be.
SUITABLE LAND, PREMISES AND DESIGN Location matters; choosing a suitable location for your swim school pool to succeed is essential and a feasibility study must be carried out considering: • Space for the facility • Site constraints • Bearing capacity of ground, soil conditions and depth of water table • Accessibility • Sufficient car parking • Location of existing public services and drainage capacity. When it comes to the location, also think creatively, we have seen several swim schools build pools in industrial units, in shopping centres, in disused pubs, on business parks and even a car park. Invest in quality facilities and equipment too. Pools should be well-maintained and equipped with safety features. You’ll also need teaching aids, changing rooms, and administrative spaces. Good design can maximise customer appeal. Most parents are looking for good parking, good changing rooms and warm water. So, as we welcome the New Year and consider any resolutions, how about the possibility of owning your own swim school and pool. It’s a venture that combines personal passion with professional success, and it allows you to make a meaningful impact on the lives in your community. With careful planning, dedication and commitment, you can turn your New Year’s resolution into a reality. So, here’s to ‘New Year, New Pool’, and the exciting journey of swim school ownership ahead! STA 01922 645097 www.sta.co.uk
www.swimmingpoolnews.co.uk 06/12/2023 17:24