New swimming classification course launched

World Para Swimming is inviting classifiers and those interested in becoming a classifier to register for a new training course, where they can benefit from expert training by certified educators in Copenhagen, Denmark, from 5-7 March.

Applications for the Level 2 course for those wishing to becoming a National Classifier can be made via the World Para Swimming website until 27 January 2017.

The course, being run in partnership with Parasport Denmark and the IPC Academy, will also be the first to take place since changes were made to classifier pathway in 2016. It is hoped that the training will help develop a more robust pool of national classifiers which will strengthen the sport.

Applicants must have an interest in Para swimming, a desire to serve as a national classifier in their current country of residence and have completed the Level 1 Physical Impairment Classifier Course online. Participants will receive a code for the Level 1 online course after they apply.

They will preferably be a certified health professional, have an extensive coaching or other background in Para swimming or possess a recognised academic qualification which encompasses a good level of anatomical, biomechanical and sport-specific expertise. Each candidate’s profile will be assessed individually by World Para Swimming.

By the end of the two and a half day course, which is being held in conjunction with the first World Para Swimming World Series, attendees will be able to understand and apply the conceptual basis of classification; conduct technical assessments; be able to complete classification documents; know all the Minimum Disability Criteria and how to communicate classification outcomes as well as understand and be able to follow classification procedures.

Participants who successfully complete the programme will receive a certificate and be able to serve as a National Classifier, pending approval from their National Paralympic Committee or National Federation.

They will also be eligible to attend a level 3 or level 4 programme dependent on meeting all other programme requirements, including enough classification practice.

World Para Swimming has worked with the IPC Academy in recent years to develop a consistent education pathway for those wishing to become involved in para Swimming, from their local club through to international competitions.

Programmes can be delivered in the many countries of the IPC membership and in a number of languages.

The IPC Academy is a partnership between the IPC and the World Academy of Sport and is the education division of the IPC. The Academy brings individuals together to improve educational standards of sport throughout the Paralympic Movement and ensures that executives, administrators and officials have an educational centre, providing world class programmes.