About Us

Ashford Town Swimming Club is a competitive swimming club based at the Stour Centre in Ashford, Kent.

Throughout the club, our aim is to provide a high quality swimming programme in a safe environment for all ages; from early fun and games all the way through to regional and national competition.

We believe that each swimmer should be encouraged to develop swimming skills at a level and speed appropriate for them in order to maximise their potential in a friendly, enjoyable atmosphere.

The club is run by unpaid volunteers who have been DBS checked and hold nationally recognised swim teaching qualifications.

The structure of the club is divided into three main areas. Each with its own specific coaching and teaching aims:

  • Learn to Race – Swimmers need to be able to swim at least 25m in at least two strokes AND have completed at least a Learn to Swim Stage 5 to join this section. Please see our page for details of alternative providers if this criteria is not met.
  • Squads
    • Development Squad – is for swimmers aged between 6 and 11, and helps swimmers transition into a competitive swimming programme, and move towards competing at Kent Championships.
    • Competition Squad – Our performance squad is for swimmers ages 11 to 16 who compete at Kent and Regional Championships.
  • Masters – +18 – The Masters section comprises of swimmers over the age of 18 years. It encompasses a whole range of abilities from those looking for casual fitness, to ex-swimming club members and triathletes looking to continue their competitive swimming.

If you are interested in becoming a member of ATSC please head over to our Contact page and complete the New Member form.

 

Diversity

At ATSC, we are committed to building a club culture where diversity is celebrated and every swimmer, coach, volunteer and parent feels valued, respected and supported.

We believe swimming is for everyone — regardless of age, gender, ability, race, religion or belief, sexual orientation, or background — and we provide equality of opportunity in all aspects of our club

How we promote equality and inclusion:

  • We follow Swim England’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy, Code of Ethics, and Wavepower safeguarding guidance.
  • We ensure all swimmers have access to appropriate coaching and competition pathways, with adjustments made where needed so everyone can reach their potential.
  • Our coaches and volunteers undertake regular safeguarding and inclusion training, including Swim England-approved CPD.
  • We provide clear, fair recruitment and selection processes for volunteers, coaches and committee roles.
  • Our membership and communication materials use inclusive language and encourage participation from all sections of the community.
  • We maintain a safe, welcoming environment that challenges discrimination, bullying and poor behaviour — and we act promptly on any concerns raised.
  • We regularly seek feedback from swimmers and parents to help us improve accessibility, inclusion and wellbeing.
  • Our Welfare Officer and committee work together to ensure all members feel heard and supported.

 

Safeguarding

We are committed to providing a safe environment for all members, in line with Swim England’s Wavepower: Child Safeguarding Policy and Procedures.

We believe everyone has a right to enjoy swimming in a safe and positive environment, free from abuse, neglect or harm. All safeguarding concerns are taken seriously and handled according to Swim England procedures.

If you have a safeguarding or welfare concern, please contact our Club Welfare Officer at welfare.ashfordtownsc@gmail.com or speak to a committee member in confidence.

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