Innovative swim training school ‘makes a splash’ near Sunderland city centre

A former international swimmer turned teacher is taking a leap into uncharted waters with the launch of a ‘groundbreaking’ training school in the North East.

Constantin Cosmin Petcu, a sport science graduate from Sunderland University, has launched Ceto Swim Training Group to ‘revolutionise private swimming instruction in the region.’ Located at the North East BIC, just outside of Sunderland city centre, the business has been inspired by the ‘state-of-the-art’ facilities found in US colleges.

The facility, equipped with a purpose-built endless pool, 360-degree cameras, and a ‘cutting-edge’ Vasa SwimErg machine, stands as the first of its kind in the North East. The nearest comparable facility is situated 95 miles away in Ullswater.

Cosmin explained: “This type of business has thrived for about two decades now. Major American colleges have embraced it, yet there’s been a void in the North East of England, until now.

“Having been involved in coaching, teaching, and professional swimming for over 20 years, and being a Sport Science graduate from Sunderland University, I’ve witnessed the immense benefits of private tuition, detailed stroke pattern analysis, and the integration of biomechanics. With Ceto Swim Training Group, I aim to bring these advantages to the North East.”

Ceto Swim Training Group will cater not only to beginners but will also place a special emphasis on triathletes, leveraging biomechanics to enhance their stroke techniques and overall performance. The facility is designed to offer a private and professional alternative to traditional forms of swimming tuition, commonly held in public facilities.

In addition to providing lessons for beginners and triathletes, Ceto Swim Training Group is actively seeking affiliation with the Swimming Teacher Association (STA) to deliver courses for swimming teachers and help address the shortage of qualified teachers in the industry.

Cosmin continued: “I’m already a tutor for swimming teachers, but gaining STA Approved Training Centre certification will enable us to encourage more individuals to join the profession and bridge the skills gap facing the industry.

“Swimming offers numerous health and social benefits, particularly for young people. If we lack the teachers and coaches to impart this vital life skill, we risk depriving many young individuals of these advantages. We are committed to addressing this challenge and getting more people into the water.”

Ceto Swim Training Group emerged after Cosmin tapped into the free business startup support provided by the North East BIC. He added: “The BIC team has been immensely helpful. From crafting my business plan to navigating legalities and even assisting with a Start Up Loan application, they provided invaluable support.”

By Matthew Neville – Senior Correspondent, Bdaily

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