Working Partnerships

Derwentside and Gateshead Swim Team proudly operates in close partnership with key national and regional governing bodies (listed below) that uphold the standards and integrity of competitive swimming. These include Swim England, British Swimming, and our local County and Regional Swimming Associations, whose guidance ensures our programs align with best practices in athlete development, coaching, and competition. Through these affiliations, we maintain compliance with safeguarding policies, coaching certifications, and event regulations, fostering a safe and inclusive environment for all members.

 

SwimMark Accreditation

The Derwentside and Gateshead Swim Team is proudly affiliated with Swim England and holds SwimMark accreditation. This means the club meets high standards in areas such as coaching, child welfare, and club management — giving you peace of mind that your child is in safe, supportive hands.

SwimMark is Swim England’s quality mark for clubs, designed to ensure a positive experience for all swimmers, whether they’re just starting out or aiming for competitive success. It shows the club is committed to inclusivity, safeguarding, and helping young athletes thrive.

If you're thinking about enrolling your child or getting involved as a parent, this accreditation is a strong sign that the club takes its responsibilities seriously and offers a well-run, welcoming environment.
 

Aquatics GB (Previously British Swimming) 

Serves as the national governing body for elite aquatic sports across Great Britain. Its role is distinct from the home nation bodies (Swim England, Scottish Swimming, and Swim Wales), and it focuses primarily on high-performance and international representation.

 

Swim England

Swim England is the official organisation responsible for swimming in England. They support everyone involved in the sport — from children learning to swim, to teachers, coaches, and competitive athletes.

Our club works closely with Swim England to ensure we follow the highest standards in safety, training, and development. Their training courses and CPD (Continuing Professional Development) programmes help make sure that everyone who teaches or coaches swimming is well-qualified, confident, and up to date with best practice.

 

Northumberland and Durham Swimming Association (NDSA)

NDSA supports swimming clubs across Northumberland, County Durham, Teesside, and parts of North Yorkshire. It operates under Swim England’s North East Region and helps clubs grow while maintaining high standards.

What NDSA Does for D&G Swim Team

  • Club Support – Offers guidance to meet Swim England standards in coaching, safeguarding, and governance.
  • Competitions – Runs county championships and team events, giving swimmers a route to higher-level meets.
  • Training – Provides development for coaches, volunteers, and officials.
  • Collaboration – Brings clubs together to share ideas and promote best practice.

 

Swim England North East Region

Supports swimming across the North East by working with clubs, coaches, and volunteers to maintain high standards in training, safeguarding, and club development.

It organises regional competitions, runs talent pathways, and provides education for teachers and officials. The region also acts as a bridge between Swim England nationally and local clubs — helping the sport grow at every level.