Staff

Michelle White
Aquatic Centre and Turf Manager

Michelle White has over 30 years’ experience in the swim industry, as a competitive swimmer, administrator, official and coach. She is nationally qualified in IOT (Inspector of Turns) and timekeeping and has achieved numerous coaching and swim teaching certifications over the years. Michelle has taught babies through to competitive squads, both at Diocesan and elsewhere, and brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the role. Michelle has had involvement in surf lifesaving and is passionate about ensuring that children are confident and safe around water. 

Ivan Sanchez 
Senior Instructor & supervisor.

Ivan has over 15 years experience of teaching and coach. He has a background in competitve swimming, both in the pool and in open water, where he won numerous national titles in his home country of Chile. He still competes and swims on a regular basis. Ivan takes learn to swim, squads and private classes during the week, plus supervising the swim school on saturdays.

Ella Speight
Senior Instructor .

Ella has been at the swim school for over 3 years, teaching all levels and also helping out in the office. She has a background in competitive swimming and water polo. On Saturday mornings she helps run the swim school with Ivan.

Carlos Kucera
Senior Instructor.

Carlos has an extensive background in education, specialising in physical education. He has a PhD in education, and has over 20 years experience teaching and training children and athletes, including training strength and conditioning for two Olympic swimmers. He leads the Saturday morning babies class alongside our experienced junior pool instructors.

Coaching team

Over 30 swim instructors are employed on a part time basis to teach swimming, usually whilst completing their tertiary studies or finishing school. We have a well diversified team with a range of swimming backgrounds including: competitive swimming, water polo and surf lifesaving. However, it is their ability to interact positively with children and to motivate and encourage them to learn in a fun but focused manner, which is key. Staff receive regular training in water safety, first aid and stroke technique as part of their employment.