A swimming teacher from Edenbridge Leisure Centre has been recognised as one of the country’s best after receiving a surprise visit from former Team GB swimmer Michael Gunning, who presented her with a national award.
Laura Webster was named Everyone Active Swim England Swim Teacher of the Year 2025-26 after being selected from more than 4,000 swim teachers across Everyone Active’s nationwide portfolio.
The award recognises an inspirational swim teacher who consistently goes above and beyond to deliver exceptional swimming lessons, helping people of all ages and abilities build confidence in the water and learn a vital life skill.
Michael Gunning, the British-Jamaican former competitive swimmer, television presenter and advocate for diversity and inclusion in sport, visited Edenbridge Leisure Centre on Monday 13 July to present Laura with her award during a special celebration held at the centre.
Laura has been teaching swimming for more than 20 years, including the last 15 at Edenbridge Leisure Centre, where she has become a highly valued member of the team.
Every week, she teaches more than 100 swimmers of all ages, helping them build confidence in the water, develop essential life skills and achieve their personal goals.
Speaking at the presentation, Michael highlighted the important role swim teachers play in transforming lives and creating safer, healthier communities.
Michael Gunning said: “Swimming is a skill for life, but it’s swim teachers who make that possible. Every day, they help children and adults build confidence in the water, learn a vital life-saving skill and discover the joy of being active.
“Swim teachers do so much more than teach people to swim. They build confidence, strengthen communities and help people develop a skill that could one day save their life.
“That’s why it’s so important to celebrate the incredible work they do. I’m delighted to help recognise Laura’s achievement. To be named Swim Teacher of the Year from more than 4,000 teachers across Everyone Active is a fantastic accomplishment and thoroughly deserved.”
Laura’s achievement was recognised following a nomination from Edenbridge Leisure Centre Swim Manager Gemma Tingley.
Gemma said: “Laura is one of our most sought-after teachers, with parents regularly praising the confidence and enjoyment she brings to their children’s swimming lessons.
“She goes above and beyond for both customers and colleagues, always sharing her ideas, supporting other teachers and finding ways to help wherever she can. Whether that is volunteering for additional programmes, supporting centre events or stepping in when the team needs her, Laura consistently makes a positive difference.
“Laura also manages her own health challenges while continuing to provide an exceptional experience for every swimmer she teaches. Her dedication, passion and commitment make her a truly deserving winner.”
Laura said: “I feel very overwhelmed to have been presented with the award, and humbled by the amount of support and appreciation I have been given. Michael is such a great advocate for swimming and inclusivity and it was an honour to meet him, let alone receive the award from him.
"The most rewarding thing about teaching swimming is the students’ reactions when they first learn to float and when they achieve their milestones.”
Everyone Active manages Edenbridge Leisure Centre, Sevenoaks Leisure Centre and White Oak Leisure Centre on behalf of Sevenoaks District Council.