Teachers

Rick Van Der Zant

Education:  Mt Gravatt Teachers College – Diploma Teaching Primary and Human Movements (1989), Silver Licence (1980 – 2016) NCAS / ASCTA Accredited.

In my thirty six years of teaching and coaching swimming I have guided junior swimmers through to seniors at all levels of competitions from club, District, Regional, State, National and International.

My aim is to provide a challenging environment that allows the young athletes I work with to reach their full potential.  This environment will be conducive to maximising physical learning whilst developing a passion towards lifelong skills in and out of the pool.

I have been fortunate to be part of many State and National teams as a coach.  I have attended the 2000, 2008, 2012 Olympic Games as well as the 2000 and 2016 Paralympic Games.

The opportunity to coach at Wellers Hill State School will further develop my passion and commitment to coaching allowing me to mentor young athletes and coaches to be the absolute best they can be.

Oisin Grennan

I am currently the PE specialist at Wellers Hill State School. Part of my role at Wellers is to teach swimming to all students from Prep to Grade 6 in both terms 1 & 4. I have also instructed swimming lessons at numerous other locations over the last few years.

I currently coach and have coached different sports across a multiple of ages and levels.

I have number of qualifications which include Graduate Diploma of Education, Bachelor of Business and Certificate III & IV in Fitness.

I have gained coaching accreditation’s in the following:

  • Austswim – Teacher of Swimming & Water Safety
  • Athletics – Level 2 Coach
  • Rugby Union – Level 1 Coach
  • Gaelic Football – Accredited Coach

I have a keen interest in Triathlon, Rugby and Strength & Conditioning.

Nicola Laidlow

I have completed the following education:

  • Bachelor degree in Fine Arts (Visual)
  • Teacher of Swimming & Water Safety

In my spare time I like to do photography, animation, reading & water polo.

I have been an instructor at Wellers Hill since the end of 2015. I enjoy being in the pool and helping kids develop skills. I also enjoy the stories the kids tell me.

Lindsay Varvari

I grew up in Central Queensland, and moved to Brisbane in 2005 to attend uni. I’ve had extensive experience working with young people in my previous roles as a tutor for Kip McGrath, mentor at Griffith University, and instructor at JUMP! Swim School.

Professionally, I am a photographer and publications editor, but I also work as a swim instructor because I love interacting with kids, and teaching a lifelong and potentially lifesaving skill.  In my spare time I volunteer with the SES, practice yoga, and make photo documentaries.

I have the following qualifications:

  • AUSTSWIM Teacher of Swimming and Water Safety
  • Working With Children check (blue card)
  • SEM0203 Apply First Aid (includes Provide CPR, Provide Basic
  • Emergency Life Support, Provide First Aid)

Emily Drummond

Hi my names Emily Drummond. I’m 19 years old and currently studying child protection at Griffith university. I haven’t always enjoyed swimming. When I was younger I was petrified of the water. However it only took one teacher to change that. And I hope to be that teacher for your children.

This is my third year being a swimming teacher and my second year working at Wellers Hill. I have known Rick for many years as he used to be my coach. I hope to have a chance to meet all of the children and parents throughout the season.

Luke Bogomiagkoff

Hi I’m Luke Bogomiagkoff and I’m 17 years old and currently in year 12. I still compete in World Series Open Water swimming and I grew up with the sport as everyone in my family swims. When I was younger I was taught by Rick and also went to Wellers Hill State School. This is my first year of being a swimming teacher and I love to pass on my experiences and knowledge to the children at Wellers Hill.

Outside of work I play a lot of sports such as soccer, swimming, futsal and skating.
I have completed Teacher of Swimming and Water Safety, First Aid and Working with Children check (blue card).

Swim Club Committee

Friday night club nights are run by a dedicated sub committee team. If you would like to be part of this team please email swimschool@wellershillpandc.com.au