STA Podcast

STA Conference 2026 is almost here. In this special conference preview episode, Alex Barrett and Kaylë Brightwell discuss the standout sessions, keynote speakers, industry trends and opportunities awaiting delegates, while sharing why this year's event promises to be one of the most exciting yet.

In this episode, Zoe is joined by Britt Jackson, Executive Director of the Underwater Hypoxic Blackout Prevention Foundation (UHBP), to discuss the challenges of raising awareness around underwater hypoxic blackout. They explore why greater understanding of the risks is so important and the work being done to help spread this vital safety message.

Alex Barrett, STA’s Head of Aquatics, is joined by Troy Parsonage, CEO of SEN UK Swimming, for a conversation about inclusive swimming and the growing partnership between the two organisations. They discuss their shared passion for inclusion and what the partnership could mean moving forward.

In this episode of the STA Podcast, Zoe Cooper from STA is joined by James Lee from Green Tech International, one of STA’s newest pool plant partners, for an insightful conversation about Hydro Dioxide and biofilm.

In this episode, Alex Barrett is joined by David Bullen from Durham Aquatics, who leads a successful and large school swimming programme across County Durham.   With extensive experience delivering swimming lessons at scale, David shares valuable insights on driving standards, prioritising water safety, and how he prepares his teams for the September return to swimming lessons.

In this episode, Jodie is joined by Tim Rogers, one of the UK's leading authorities on safeguarding and the protection of children and adults at risk. A former Detective, Tim has conducted forensic safeguarding reviews for one of the world's largest faith organisations and now works as a consultant for the NSPCC. With extensive experience across safeguarding, child protection, and organisational risk management, Tim shares valuable insights on creating safer environments and strengthening safeguarding practices within swim schools and aquatic settings.

Zoe is joined by Leslie and Sarah from Outswimming Cancer to discuss how the power of swimming can bring people together following a cancer diagnosis.

In this episode, Kayle sits down with Abbey Ratchford, an experienced STA tutor and ATC Co-ordinator from Swim Teacher Training Academy, to explore the new STA Swimming Teacher qualification.

Alex Barrett, STA’s Head of Aquatics, sits down with Leon Fryer from Swimyourswim to spread awareness of water safety and explore how teachers can keep learners safe in the water.

In this episode, we sit down with Alex Barrett, STA’s new Head of Aquatics, for an introductory conversation to help you get to know him and his role within the organisation.