Help for Instructors
Everything you need to know about teaching private swim lessons with AQUA S.T.A.R. Canada as an independent contractor.
Apply to TeachCommon Questions
Find answers about contractor status, earnings, requirements, and teaching with AQUA S.T.A.R.
AQUA S.T.A.R. connects certified swimming instructors with clients seeking private lessons. Instructors travel to private residences or condos, offering personalized instruction on flexible schedules. If clients don't have pools, they can use our shared pool locations.
NO. You engage as an independent contractor under BC's Employment Standards Act (ESA). This means:
- You operate your own swim instruction business
- We are your client, not your employer
- You control your schedule, methods, and tools
Per BC law and your contract, you:
- Control when/where/how you teach
- Bear financial risk (travel costs, taxes, equipment)
- Can work for competitors simultaneously
AQUA S.T.A.R. Provides
- Client leads & booking platform
- $5M liability insurance
- Brand marketing & support
- Direct deposit payment system
You Provide
- Teaching equipment (goggles, kickboards)
- Transportation to lessons
- Tax registration (GST/PST)
- Certifications & training
- CPP/EI deductions
- Paid vacation or sick leave
- Statutory holiday pay
- Workers' Compensation coverage (you must secure your own)
Per BC ESA, these apply only to employees
AQUA S.T.A.R. instructors earn between:
- 30-minute lesson: $15.00 – $66.00
- 1-hour lesson: $27.00 – $117.00
This does not include bonuses and benefits. Join us to maximize your earning potential in the swim instruction industry.
Note: Our company runs promotions at different times, so payout may vary slightly depending on active promotions.
To join AQUA S.T.A.R. as an instructor, you must:
- Hold a valid teaching certificate (Red Cross or Lifesaving Society)
- Have a minimum of 3 years' teaching experience
- Possess current First Aid/CPR-C & AED certification
- Pass an online background check
- Be at least 18 years old
Signing up is free, and the hiring process includes an interview and practical assessment.
At AQUA S.T.A.R., we prioritize instructor success with perks including:
- Instructor Equipment Coverage
- Distance Charge Coverage
- Re-certification Coverage
- Team-building events
- Flexible scheduling
- Direct deposit payments
Plus additional bonuses not listed here. Join us and experience the difference.
We offer direct deposit to your bank account. You'll need to provide:
- Basic contact details
- A blank direct deposit form from your bank
- Send to info@aquastarcanada.com
Payments are processed regularly for completed lessons.
Independent instructors must report income using a T2125, Statement of Business or Professional Activities. You will not receive a T4 as you are not an employee. Keep track of expenses like travel and equipment for deductions.
AQUA S.T.A.R. sends email and text alerts whenever a lesson is scheduled, cancelled, or modified. You'll receive confirmation when booked and a reminder the day before with student names. We recommend using calendar software to track your schedule.
If a client cancels, they must do so through our system with at least 24 hours notice for credit. Instructors should not handle administrative tasks like rescheduling to prevent misunderstandings. Check your dashboard for real-time updates.
Notify us as soon as possible through your instructor dashboard or by contacting support. We understand emergencies happen, but frequent cancellations may affect your standing with clients. Refer to your instructor agreement for specific policies.
BC's Employment Standards Branch DOES NOT COVER independent contractors. By joining, you sign an Independent Contractor Acknowledgment confirming you understand ESA protections don't apply.
If you disagree with contractor status, do not sign our agreement. BC courts require mutual understanding of contractor status.
Ready to Join Our Team?
Apply today to become an AQUA S.T.A.R. instructor and start your journey in personalized swim instruction.
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