Canning Swim School Wins Top Honours at National Awards

The City of Canning is proud to celebrate the outstanding achievements of Canning Swim School at the prestigious 2025 Australian Swim Schools Association (ASSA) Awards, where the program collected five honours and was recognised among the very best in the nation.

Canning Swim School was named WA State Winner of Swim School of the Year before going on to be awarded National Highly Commended Swim School of the Year, placing it in the top tier of swim schools across Australia.

Adding to the success, Swim School Team Leader, Jordi Sullivan, was crowned WA State Winner and National Winner of Swim School Manager of the Year, recognising her exceptional leadership, program innovation, and community impact. Meanwhile, Swim Teacher, Vynka Cridge, received Regional/State Highly Commended Swim Teacher of the Year, highlighting her dedication to excellence in teaching and mentoring.

Mayor Hall is extremely proud of the team for winning the awards and commented that they were a source of pride for the whole community.

“Canning Swim School is more than a place to learn swimming and water safety. It is a community hub that welcomes families of all backgrounds and abilities. These awards are a reflection of the passion, professionalism, and inclusivity that define our Leisureplex facilities.” said Mayor Hall.

Over the past year, Canning Swim School has delivered more than 47,000 swimming lessons to over 7,400 students, expanding programs that cater for all ages and abilities. From babies to adults, including specialist programs for people with disability, culturally and linguistically diverse communities, and women-only classes. Highlights also include expanding the award-winning Women’s Wellness Program into a year-round service, issuing more than 10,500 make-up lessons for busy families, and partnering with organisations such as Communicare and Zonta House to deliver free and inclusive programs for at-risk groups.

Swim School Team Leader and National Manager of the Year, Jordi Sullivan, said the recognition belonged to the whole team. Vynka Cridge, who has been a swim school instructor with Canning Swim School for more than 17 years, said she was humbled to be acknowledged.

She said, “It was such an honour to be nominated, and an even greater surprise to be recognised nationally for something I love so much. Working at Canning Swim School has given me a rewarding career with the balance to enjoy life outside of work. I’ve been fortunate to have the support of our leadership team and to share ideas with such a talented group of teachers over the years. For me, the joy comes from seeing kids having fun while learning and that’s what makes a great lesson.”

The ASSA Awards are the highest national honours in the industry,
recognising swim schools, teachers, and managers who demonstrate excellence in teaching, leadership, and community contribution.

With demand for swimming lessons continuing to grow, Canning Swim School is on the lookout for passionate new instructors to join its award-winning team. Anyone interested in a rewarding career
as a swim instructor can apply at www.canning.wa.gov.au/swimcareers.