At Turtle Tots, we believe every splash tells a story. From the very first tentative kick to their first confident, independent swim, baby swimming is about so much more than learning to move in water — it’s about building confidence, nurturing bonds, and creating joyful early experiences for both babies and parents.

Our world-class swimming teachers play a pivotal role in creating those first magical swimming experiences for families across the UK, Ireland, and the UAE. That’s why, as part of the very first International Baby Swimming Teachers Week, we’re delighted to announce Beka Dovey from Southampton as our Turtle Tots Baby Swimming Teacher of the Year 2026! Beka received an incredible 34 nominations, each filled with heartfelt stories showing just how much she makes a difference to families and little ones in her classes.

Why Beka Stands Out

Parents and carers have shared countless stories about the magic Beka brings to the pool:

“Beka is incredible, she knows her babies so well! From the first lesson she knew all their names and takes time to add little elements to each lesson to show that she knows what the babies enjoy and what they might not like so much. I get horrible social anxiety when I start new things, particularly in groups, but Beka instantly put my mind at rest and made me feel completely comfortable. We are so glad we found Turtle Tots for our little girl!”

“Beka is one of a kind! She is so patient, especially when 2-year-olds are being 2-year-olds. She gets all the kids engaged and is amazing at helping the little ones learn to swim. We’re honestly so grateful to have her teach our youngest! Thank you Beka x”

“Beka is just incredible, she truly cares for each of the children she teaches and they all adore her. My little boy is obsessed with her and misses her during the holidays. He loves her so much he wanted her to be his Valentine xx”

It’s clear from these nominations that Beka’s passion, patience, and expertise make every lesson a positive, memorable experience, not just for the children, but for parents too.

Beka Joined the Turtle Tots Southampton team in 2016 and has been a firm favourite with our families ever since. Beka says,

“I love every single aspect of my job, from getting to know all the lovely parents to making an incredible bond with their babies. The Turtle Tots ethos is something I fully believe in, and seeing it put into practise whilst teaching really makes my day!”

Turtle Tots Southampton Franchisee, Sian Green adds,

“Beka is an incredible teacher, this award is so well deserved. Beka lives and breathes turtle tots. she is not only an amazing teacher to the babies, she is incredible at educating the parents on the turtle tots way and also helps co-teach with the knew teachers that come through to ensure consistency across the whole Turtle Tots Southampton team.  Myself, the team and all of customers are so proud and lucky to have her!”

The Magic Behind Baby Swimming

Baby swimming lessons are about more than just water skills. Under the guidance of teachers like Beka, babies and toddlers:

• Develop water confidence and safety skills from the very first lesson.
• Strengthen physical coordination, balance, and muscle development through gentle, playful movements in water.
• Build emotional bonds with parents during distraction-free, joyful pool interactions.
• Gain social confidence as they meet peers and learn to interact in a supportive environment.

Every lesson is carefully designed to nurture children holistically, combining fun, learning, and essential early development skills.

Celebrating the People Behind Every Splash

The launch of International Baby Swimming Teacher Week 2026 gave us the perfect opportunity to celebrate amazing teachers like Beka. Baby swimming teachers are often the first professionals to help children and their parents feel confident in the water. They are the heart behind every splash, every giggle, and every proud milestone.

As our Co-founder, Caroline Sparks, explains:

“Baby swimming teachers play a crucial role in early development, bonding, and water safety. Recognising them not only celebrates their amazing work but also inspires more people to join this rewarding profession.”

Join Us in Celebrating Beka

We are so proud to recognise Beka Dovey as Turtle Tots Baby Swimming Teacher of the Year 2026. Her dedication, warmth, and expertise have made a lasting impact on the families she teaches, and the thousands of little swimmers who are learning to love the water every week.

If your baby or toddler has experienced the joy of swimming lessons with a Turtle Tots teacher, take a moment to thank them. Behind every splash is a teacher making a difference, just like Beka.

Inspired by Beka’s Story? Join the Turtle Tots Family!

If Beka’s story has inspired you, why not consider a career as a Baby Swimming Teacher or Franchisee with Turtle Tots? Our world-class teachers, amazing administrators, brilliant franchisees share the same values and commitment to creating magical swimming experiences for little ones.

Working with Turtle Tots means joining a team dedicated to delivering exceptional lessons every day, making learning to swim fun, safe, and inspiring for both children and their parents. If you want to be part of our supportive, purpose-driven community, explore our training programmes and current vacancies to start your journey with Turtle Tots today.