Edinburgh Leisure, the city’s leading sports and leisure provider, is expanding its swim programme by creating 750 additional swimming lesson spaces for participants ranging from pre-school children to adults.
The expansion comes at a critical time. While learning to swim remains a vital life skill with significant benefits for social development, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted swimming coaching, causing many teachers to leave the profession.
In response, Edinburgh Leisure has strategically focused on recruiting and training new coaches to restore and enhance its swimming programme.
“Everyone should be able to enjoy Scotland’s beautiful waterways safely and with confidence,” says Angela McCowan, Coaching Programme Manager. “Our Learn to Swim programme gives children and adults the opportunity to develop critical water skills in a supportive environment.”
As part of the Learn to Swim Framework—a collaborative initiative between Scottish Water and Scottish Swimming—Edinburgh Leisure is dedicated to creating inclusive, welcoming spaces where individuals of all abilities can learn alongside their peers.
Key highlights of the programme include:
750 new swimming lesson spaces across multiple venues
Fully accredited swim teachers following the Scottish Swimming Learn to Swim Programme
Focus on building water confidence for all age groups
More spaces and lessons are now available across the city, with the largest increases at Ainslie Park, Drumbrae Leisure Centre, Warrender Swim Centre, and the Royal Commonwealth Pool.
“Our recent coaching customer survey confirmed the high demand for swimming lessons,” McCowan adds. “These additional spaces will make it easier for participants to progress through our programme levels.”
Spaces are expected to fill quickly, particularly at entry levels. Interested individuals are encouraged to book their lessons promptly.
Free Lifeguard training opens doors for young Edinburgh talent
Edinburgh Leisure, in partnership with The King’s Trust, is offering an exciting opportunity for young people aged 16-30 to launch a career in lifeguarding through a comprehensive free training programme starting in February 2025.
Programme Highlights
The innovative ‘Get into Lifeguarding’ initiative provides a structured pathway to employment, featuring:
A pre-selection day with a swim test
Free 1-week National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) course
One week of work experience at one of Edinburgh Leisure pool venues
Mentorship from experienced staff
Job interview preparation
Up to six months of post-programme support
Reimbursed travel expenses and lunches
Programme Timeline
w/c 3 February 2025: Pre-selection Day
17 – 21 February 2025: NPLQ Course
24 – 28 February 2025: Work Experience at an Edinburgh Leisure venue
Dates TBC: Interview Experience and Celebration Event
Franek Karwacki, 18, from Trinity, is one of the last cohort’s success stories. He’d left Trinity High School in summer 2024 with outstanding A-grade Highers and had been working part-time in a fish and chip shop.
Unlike many of his peers who pursued immediate university education, Franek chose an alternative path. Encouraged by his father, he applied to the ‘Get Into Lifeguarding Course’ offered by the King’s Trust in partnership with Edinburgh Leisure, viewing it as an opportunity for professional development and personal growth.
“Unlike my university-bound friends who are burning through their savings, I’m earning a steady income. The shift work doesn’t bother me, and I quite enjoy the earlies, starting at 5:30am and ending at 2pm, as it gives me time to pursue my passion for basketball,” he says.
The programme has opened a door he hadn’t even considered before: “I hadn’t necessarily thought about lifeguarding as a career path,” Franek admitted, “but now I’ve gained skills that were completely paid for and got a job. The support from both Edinburgh Leisure and the King’s Trust had transformed what could have been an uncertain period into a real opportunity.”
Alyson Coats, Manager at Leith Victoria Swim Centre and responsible for the partnership, emphasised the programme’s broader mission: “”This initiative is a win-win. We’re providing young people with a unique opportunity to learn, grow, and potentially launch a career in the leisure industry.
“For many young people, like Franek, this could be life-changing for them.”
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply by Friday, 24 January 2025:
As the world welcomes in 2025 and the “New Year, New You” mantra resonates, Edinburgh Leisure is offering an exciting opportunity for fitness enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
With a £0 Joining Fee promotion throughout January 2025, there’s never been a better time to embark on your wellness journey.
Exclusive Membership Promotion: Zero Barriers to Fitness
Designed to make fitness accessible to everyone, regardless of age or fitness level, Edinburgh Leisure, the city’s largest provider of sports and leisure facilities, is breaking down financial barriers with its £0 Joining Fee offer.
Comprehensive Fitness Options
Members gain unlimited access to an impressive range of facilities:
12 pools
17 gyms across the city
New Evolve Hybrid gym at Meadowbank
Lead and speed climbing facilities
Six golf courses
Over 750 weekly fitness classes
The no Joining Fee membership is available to new members from January 1st to 31st, 2025.
Fitness for Every Journey
Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned athlete, Edinburgh Leisure offers tailored fitness solutions.
Cutting-Edge Fitness Trends
Edinburgh Leisure has revolutionised the fitness landscape with the launch of Evolve Meadowbank, an official Hyrox Affiliate Training Club.
As the first leisure trust affiliated with Hyrox, they offer classes for both Hyrox newcomers and experienced participants. With a Hyrox competition in Glasgow in March 2025, their specialised membership is perfect for those looking to get competition-ready.
At the Edinburgh International Climbing Arena (EICA: Ratho), a significant £100,000 investment from sportscotland’s Sport Facilities Fund and National Lottery Players has transformed climbing opportunities.
The centre has unveiled a state-of-the-art competition bouldering wall, designed by the Serious Climbing team at Rockcity in partnership with Dreamwall.
This remarkable facility makes EICA: Ratho the only climbing centre in the UK with Olympic and International standard facilities across all three climbing disciplines: lead climbing, speed climbing, and bouldering.
This investment demonstrates Edinburgh Leisure’s commitment to providing world-class sporting infrastructure. Climbing enthusiasts and aspiring athletes can now access cutting-edge facilities that support progression at every skill level, from beginners to competitive climbers.
Group Fitness Renaissance
Post-pandemic, group exercise is experiencing a revival. Edinburgh Leisure provides a diverse range of classes:
Cardio
Dance
Strength training
Mind and body classes (Yoga and Pilates)
Inclusive Fitness for All Ages
Recognising the importance of fitness across all life stages, Edinburgh Leisure offers:
“Get up and Go” gym classes specifically designed for older adults
Low-level studio classes for those preferring a slower pace
Introductory and personal programmes at no extra cost to support you with a personalised fitness plan to reach your goals.
Your 2025 Fitness Transformation Starts Here
Whether you’re a tech-driven fitness tracker, a studio class enthusiast, or seeking a holistic wellness approach, Edinburgh Leisure provides the tools, support, and motivation to help you achieve your goals.
Embrace the New Year. Transform your fitness. Start your journey today!
Sporting Memories Foundation Scotland (SMFS) and Edinburgh Leisure are calling for volunteers to help launch a new weekly club that tackles depression, dementia, and loneliness through the power of sport.
The proposed Sporting Memories Club would be based at Meadowbank, with plans to start in the new year, pending volunteer support.
Following a successful one-off session at the Royal Commonwealth Pool, to mark the launch of Edinburgh 900 exhibition, organisers are eager to establish a regular programme for older adults passionate about sports.
Volunteer Opportunity Highlights
The clubs are run by trained by Sporting Memories volunteers who use a wide range of Sporting Memories reminiscence resources developed specifically to help prompt conversation and discussion. There is always great fun and laughter, friendships are forged, and some remarkable sporting stories often emerge.
Sporting Memories has developed an innovative and engaging approach to tackling the challenges of our ageing society. Their work focuses on reducing loneliness and isolation; getting older people physically active; and helping people to live well with dementia.
Donna Mackey, Partnership Manager at SMFS, emphasised the need for volunteers: “We’re looking for people with a love of sport and some spare time. No expert sports knowledge is required – we’ll provide full training and resources.”
Key points for potential volunteers:
No specialised sports expertise needed
Comprehensive training will be provided
Opportunity to make a meaningful difference in community health
Support for older adults, including those living with dementia
Community Impact
Sam Scott from Edinburgh Leisure explained the broader significance: “These clubs support Edinburgh Leisure’s mission to keep people active and well, no matter what age or stage.
“Using the rich history and heritage of sport, we’re creating a space where older adults can connect, reminisce, and build friendships through their shared love of sport.”
The clubs offer:
A welcoming environment for sport enthusiasts
Opportunities to share sporting memories
Social connection and support
Activities designed to combat isolation and support mental well-being
Who Can Participate?
The club welcomes:
Older adults who enjoy talking about sport
Individuals living with dementia
Carers interested in supporting their loved ones’ social engagement
Scottish boxer Lee McGregor is gearing up for the biggest fight of his career at the state-of-the-art Meadowbank Sports Centre, ahead of his upcoming bout on the high-profile Tyson Fury – Oleksandr Usyk world title rematch undercard in Saudi Arabia on 21 December.
Just days before his 28th birthday, McGregor sees this opportunity as the culmination of his lifelong boxing journey. He will face Isaac Lowe in what promises to be one of the most anticipated fights of the year.
McGregor has been meticulously preparing at Meadowbank, adapting his training schedule to match the fight’s timing in the Middle East. His camp has included diverse sparring partners from England, Glasgow, France, and Spain, ensuring comprehensive preparation for the crucial match.
The venue holds special significance for McGregor, who previously trained at Meadowbank’s amateur boxing club as a young kid, where he represented Meadowbank Amateur Boxing Club, training in the old gym.
“Being able to train back at Meadowbank with their state-of-the-art facilities and a dedicated boxing gym, is incredible,” McGregor said. “It’s where my boxing journey began, and now I’m preparing for a world-class event.”
Josh Anderson, Operations Manager at Meadowbank Sports Centre said: “It’s been a huge privilege to welcome someone of Lee’s calibre to our facilities. We’ve enjoyed meeting him, his team and sparring partners for his final training camp, ahead of what will be the biggest fight of his life.
“We wish him all the best and will be rooting for him.”
The £47m Meadowbank Sports Centre, reopened in July 2022, represents a significant investment in community sports and wellness, offering expanded facilities to support physical activity and athletic development.
The new venue supports accessible participation and has improved indoor facilities including two multi-sport games halls with seating, three fitness studios and a gym with triple the number of exercise stations and a boxing gym, among its facilities.
The wait is finally over as the new bouldering facilities at Edinburgh Leisure’s flagship climbing arena at Ratho open today – Saturday, 7 December 2024.
The Edinburgh International Climbing Arena received £100,000 towards bouldering redevelopment to improve opportunities to progress at all levels of the sport and was made possible from sportscotland’s Sport Facilities Fund and National Lottery Players, who raise £30 million each week for good causes across the UK.
The new state-of-the-art competition bouldering wall, designed by the Serious Climbing team at Rockcity, in partnership with Dreamwall, means that EICA: Ratho is the only climbing centre in the UK with Olympic/International standard facilities for all three climbing disciplines (lead climbing, speed climbing and bouldering).
Nic Crawshaw, Climbing Operations Manager at EICA explained: “Designed for experienced climbers, these walls complement our existing facilities, offering even more opportunities to push climbers limits and refine their skills.
“We’ve been really privileged to work with some of the best route setters in the world. Percy Bishton, Head of the IFSC Route Setting Commission and Tokyo Olympic Chief Route Setter has led a team setting the new boulders, along with Max Aryton, another IFSC route setter and GB Climbing head of route setting, watched over by our very own highly experienced route setter Jess McCaskey.
The boulders, made by leading climbing wall manufacturer Dreamwall, in their factory in Sofia, Bulgaria, arrived at the EICA in October, along with their expert construction team. Work has taken place over the last couple of months to install the new walls.
The holds, macros and volumes are from the exciting brands in the Serious Climbing stable, which featured heavily at the Olympics and the IFSC World Cup series.
In celebration of the new bouldering facilities, EICA: Ratho has a December Bouldering Competition with the chance to win a year of free climbing. There is a special no-joining-fee offer for Climb Memberships too, available until 31st January 2025.
And for those just visiting Edinburgh or still deciding on a membership, there is the possibility to grab a 2-week Winter Pass by 18th December and experience everything EICA has to offer – including the new arena boulders. The Winter Pass is perfect for joining the December Bouldering Competition.
As the UK’s largest climbing gym and the only international competition venue, it has hosted European Championships and World Cup for Lead and Speed in recent years, but the bouldering facilities needed an upgrade to enable it to host all three IFSC (International Federation of Sport Climbing) and Olympic disciplines.
As Mark English, Managing Director of Rockcity explained: “With these new, modern flat-panelled bouldering walls and another freestanding boulder the Edinburgh community now has the best facilities in the city and surrounding area, using an unrivalled climbing hold selection and world class route setting.
“Now the work’s complete you can expect to see Edinburgh Leisure’s flagship climbing experience jump into the future and host some amazing competition and circuit-based bouldering in the coming year.”
Welcoming the investment, Emma Ogilvie-Hall, Head of Operations at Edinburgh Leisure said: “We’re very grateful to the sportscotland funding and National Lottery players that has allowed us to replace our outdated bouldering facilities at the Edinburgh International Climbing Arena (EICA) with facilities that are of Olympic/International Climbing standard, meaning that Scotland is able to host bouldering competitions and national training camps and allow the EICA to keep our national and international profile as a world-class climbing facility.
“With indoor bouldering now the most widely practised form of climbing it will ensure that the EICA can continue as a world class venue for all three climbing disciplines – lead, speed, and bouldering – while continuing to provide climbers of all ages and abilities with access to opportunities to participate in and progress through the sport.”
Jamie Smith, ClimbScotland Development Manager at Mountaineering Scotland said: “It is great to see this development come to fruition.
“The bouldering upgrade at EICA in the arena has been a strategic priority for a number of years and Mountaineering Scotland has supported the need for this through our facility strategy.
“Over the years, EICA has supported and hosted a number of our competitions as well as training events for our development and national squads. We look forward to our next event at EICA and getting on the new boulders”
Visual cards break down barriers for inclusive swimming lessons
A PIONEERING visual teaching tool has launched in Edinburgh, making swimming lessons more accessible to everyone.
Supporting Scottish Swimming and Scottish Water’s vision to create ‘Generation Swim’, SwimPix – a collection of waterproof visual instruction cards- is helping to transform how Edinburgh Leisure and George Watsons swimming teachers communicate with their students.
The cards represent the latest learning development in the Learn to Swim National Framework, which currently helps around 81,000 children and adults learn to swim each week across Scotland.
SwimPix features multiple display options, including sequence boards and lesson planners, covering lessons through pictures which children with autism, hearing impairments, or where English isn’t their first language may find benefit – supporting the Framework commitment to creating inclusive, supportive and quality environments in which individuals can learn to swim regardless of their age, ability or skill level.
Alison Bell, Founder of Aswim, said: “SwimPix are a tried and tested teaching and communication tool for swimming teachers that helps create a more inclusive swimming environment.
“It’s great to see teachers using SwimPix and children having fun in the lesson with the cards. It really reduces anxieties and helps children know what the teacher is asking them to do, therefore faster learning.”
Edinburgh Leisure and George Watsons are two of 37 Learn to Swim providers who are introducing the SwimPix cards in their lessons across 165 pools in Scotland.
Euan Lowe, Chief Executive Officer at Scottish Swimming, said: “By making swimming lessons more accessible through tools like SwimPix, we’re taking another significant step toward our mission of creating a generation of confident and safer swimmers.
“These visual teaching resources ensure that swimming really is for everyone – breaking down communication barriers and helping all children feel included and supported in the water.”
Peter Farrer, Chief Operating Officer at Scottish Water said: “Learning to swim and understanding water safety are vital life skills, especially in Scotland where we have so many miles of rivers, reservoirs, lochs and coastline to enjoy.
“Rolling out inclusive teaching tools like SwimPix is such a positive step, helping provide opportunities for every child to learn the vital knowledge and skills to help them feel safe in, on and around water – and help their parents and family network feel confident and comfortable in their swimming abilities.”
The initiative forms part of wider efforts to remove barriers to swimming across Scotland, with visual learning tools becoming increasingly important in inclusive education.
The Learn to Swim National Framework has already seen more than 100,000 children take part in lessons up and down the country and is targeting another 100,000 by 2025.
For more information on the Learn to Swim programme, visit:
Channel your inner winter Olympian and race ahead of the New Year fitness rush with Edinburgh Leisure’s new Winter Pass initiative. Designed for both seasoned athletes and beginners alike, this limited-time offer brings the thrill of winter sports energy to your fitness journey.
“Just like preparing for the slopes, there’s no better time to build your fitness foundation than before the peak season,” says Ally Strachan, Fitness Development Manager Edinburgh Leisure.
“Our Winter Pass is your lift ticket to wellness, offering an incredible variety of facilities and activities at an exceptional value.”
The Winter Pass provides a dynamic two-week membership experience for just £25, available from 18th November to 18th December. Pass holders gain unlimited access to:
17 state-of-the-art gyms
Athletic training facilities
Evolve at Meadowbank
12 swimming pools for endurance training
Saunas, steam rooms, and the historic Turkish Baths at Portobello
Over 750+ weekly fitness classes to rival any training camp
Six golf courses for those preferring a different pace
Similar to a season pass at a ski resort, the Winter Pass can be renewed for an additional two weeks, allowing fitness enthusiasts to maintain momentum through the festive period. This flexibility accommodates both high-intensity training schedules and more relaxed approaches to wellness.
Health experts emphasise that maintaining physical activity during the pre-holiday season is crucial for:
Boosting immunity during the winter months
Managing seasonal stress
Supporting mental wellbeing
Building stamina for winter sports activities
Edinburgh Leisure’s facilities, conveniently located throughout the city, feature state-of-the-art fitness equipment and expert staff ready to support every fitness journey – from first-time gym-goers to seasoned athletes.
“Consider this your early Christmas present to yourself,” adds Ally Strachan. “When others are just starting their New Year’s resolutions, you’ll already be in peak condition.”
Edinburgh Leisure is a charity dedicated to creating opportunities for everyone to lead more active, healthy lives. With state-of-the-art facilities across Edinburgh, they’re committed to making fitness accessible and enjoyable for all.
Tickets are now available for Edinburgh Leisure’s 18th annual Festive Gymnastics Display, where more than 800 gymnasts and cheerleaders from six Edinburgh Leisure venues, plus guest clubs, will come together to dazzle audiences at Meadowbank Sports Centre on Sunday, 24 November 2024.
Dorothy McQueen, Gymnastics Development Officer, explained: “Gymnastics is a great way for individuals to learn and build on the fundamentals required for physical development, well-being, and personal growth.
“Our annual Festive Display provides a fun and energetic way to the showcase skills the gymnasts and athletes have been working so hard on throughout the year.
“The focus for this event is on participation and enjoyment, rather than perfection, allowing gymnasts and athletes of all skill levels to shine. The atmosphere is relaxed and supportive, making it a delightful experience.
“It’s a bit of a balancing act to keep youngsters interested and engaged in sport, but our Festive Display adds a real sparkle to our programme for both participants and spectators!”
Alongside over 30 performances by Edinburgh Leisure gymnasts, the event will feature special guest appearances from regional clubs like Acrobay, Cheer Evolution, City of Edinburgh, Falkirk, Jack Kane, and Kestrel, showcasing a range of talent.
Edinburgh Leisure is also looking for volunteers to help the event run smoothly. With over 1,500 spectators and 500+ participants expected, volunteers are crucial to keeping things on track.
“You don’t need to know anything about gymnastics to help,” Dorothy McQueen shared. “It’s a great opportunity to get involved, whether assisting with registration, helping out in the warm-up area, or guiding guests to their seats. Anyone with time to spare, even part of the day, is welcome!”
Edinburgh Leisure’s gymnastics programme offers something for everyone, from Baby Nippers for toddlers to more advanced classes for older children in disciplines like general gymnastics, trampolining, acro and display gymnastics. It’s just one of 12 sports offered across 17 venues, all designed to help children improve agility, develop new skills, and grow their confidence.
To find out more about gymnastics classes and coaching opportunities, visit Edinburgh Leisure’s website for inspiration.
If you’re ready to embark on a journey towards a healthier, more active lifestyle, there has never been a better time to take the first step with a special promotion at Edinburgh Leisure – just in time to drop a few pounds before the Christmas festivities.
From 25th October to 10th November, you can join any of Edinburgh Leisure’s fitness, climb or golf memberships for a joining fee of just one penny. This limited-time offer is your golden opportunity to experience the benefits of being a part of Edinburgh Leisure.
Their memberships are designed to cater to all fitness levels and interests. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting out, they have something for everyone. The new Evolve Membership at Meadowbank Sports Centre is also included in this offer.
By taking advantage of this offer, you’ll gain access to 50+ venues, including 17 top-notch gyms, 12 swimming pools, 6 golf courses, 1 world-class climbing arena, and sports facilities across the city. Enjoy the flexibility of choosing from over 750 fitness classes each week, including yoga, pilates, spinning, and more.
Their expert trainers are there to support and motivate you every step of the way, ensuring you achieve your fitness goals in a fun and engaging environment.
And as a member, you can also enjoy additional member benefits like priority bookings, and free gym introduction. There is no contract – and you can freeze or cancel your membership at any time.
So, wherever you’re at on the map or in life, Edinburgh Leisure has something to suit your needs.
