Other than Sue being the most awesome- I loved hearing children need to move to learn! Thank you for all your knowledge spreading!
Our Aquatics Manager, Sue Mayo, recently represented The Lakes College Aquatic Precinct on the global stage at the United States Swim School Association National Conference in Phoenix, Arizona, where she captivated more than 200 attendees with her presentation on engagement strategies in aquatic education, an area The Lakes College Aquatic Precinct and TLC Learn to Swim proudly promotes and continues to lead.
Delegates from across the United States, Canada, South Africa, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and the United Kingdom attended Sue’s session, which drew from psychological theory, developmental science, and real-world practice. Sue explored how connection, regulation, and play shape early learning in the water, and how these principles can transform the way swim educators approach teaching young swimmers.
Her presentation highlighted the power of attachment theory, playful curiosity, and age-tailored redirection to build resilience, confidence, and a love of learning in the pool. With warmth and clarity, Sue demonstrated how emotionally attuned teaching environments can support both cognitive development and joyful participation.
While in the United States, Sue was also hosted by swim schools in New York and Phoenix, where she observed programs for infants through to school-aged students across a variety of venues and teaching styles. She also met with the Executive Director and President of Stop Drowning Now, a global organisation dedicated to drowning prevention, to discuss opportunities to shift perceptions around the importance of early swim education and water safety.
Feedback from Sue’s session was overwhelmingly positive.
attendee
“Excellent presentation and information that is backed up by actual studies. Great insights.“
attendee
“I love these sessions that dive into the psychology, anatomical, and developmental aspects of swim instruction. I would attend an entire days worth of training or take a course on this topic. The speaker was super knowledgeable and I do not think she had enough time to express and flesh out all the information she wanted to convey.”
attendee
Other participants praised Sue’s practical insights, her ability to connect theory with practice, and her passion for helping educators understand the “why” behind their teaching.
Sue’s leadership continues to inspire educators globally and elevate the standard of aquatic education both within our community and beyond. Her dedication to combining science, psychology, and play-based learning ensures that every child’s experience in the water is one of safety, confidence, and joy.
Congratulations, Sue, your passion for lifelong learning continues to make waves around the world!