Taya Harvey

From the tender age of four, Taya started her lifelong aquatic adventure as a very junior member of the respected Kingston Royals swim club. Little did she know that this early start would lay the foundation for a remarkable journey in the world of swimming. 

Her love for the sport propelled her to compete at county level where she excelled in the butterfly.  This elegant and challenging technique became her signature, carrying her through to the Surrey championships in both the 100m and 200m events.

Her rigorous six-day-a-week training regimen and regular participation in club galas cemented her passion for the sport; her transition from an aspiring swimmer to a mentor began at the age of 16 when she took her first steps into the leisure industry as a lifeguard. She steadily ascended the professional ladder, becoming a duty manager. Alongside her managerial responsibilities, Taya's heart remained steadfastly committed to her true passion: teaching. 

Working with various swim schools, she channelled her expertise into sculpting confident swimmers, regardless of their age or ability. Today, with more than two decades of teaching experience under her belt, Taya stands proudly as an ASA Level 2 instructor. Her qualifications extend well beyond the fundamentals, encompassing specialised training in infant, child, and preschool instruction. Taya's commitment to safety shines through with her National Pool Lifeguard Qualification, inclusive of PXB (Pool Extraction Board) and First Aid certifications.

She's also a certified Water Fitness/Hydro-Actif trainer, a testament to her comprehensive grasp of aquatic education.

For Taya, swimming is more than just a sport; it's a life skill that holds the power to transform lives. Her teaching philosophy revolves around creating a dynamic, engaging, and secure environment for learners of all levels and ages. From beginners finding their aquatic feet to advanced swimmers fine-tuning their strokes, Taya ensures that her lessons are not only informative but also incredibly enjoyable.

Away from the lanes and pools, Taya's love for swimming extends to her holiday escapades. Whether it's the crystalline waters of Mexico or the idyllic shores of the Dominican Republic, Taya seeks out opportunities to immerse herself in the joy of swimming whenever she can.

Taya believes the true magic of teaching lies in its diversity and the satisfaction of helping individuals achieve their goals. Her guiding principle for both students and fellow enthusiasts is simple: have fun, relax, and embrace your individual pace. In a world where strokes are as unique as the swimmers themselves, Taya's philosophy serves as a beacon of encouragement, and a reminder that every stroke is a personal journey, and every lap takes us a step towards being the swimmer we want to be.

Taya teaches children at our Notre Dame venue on Thursdays.