Ipswich Girls’ Grammar School including Ipswich Junior Grammar School is pleased to announce the appointment of Ms Aliesha Barnes to the position of Head Swim Coach.

With extensive competitive experience, Ms Barnes understands the demands of competitive swimming and the hard work needed for each swimmer to reach their personal best.

Among her many achievements, Ms Barnes was a semi-finalist at the Australian Swimming Championships, has competed in international swimming competitions in both Europe and New Zealand, and won two silver and one bronze medal at the 2017 FINA World Masters Swimming Championships. She currently holds five Australian Swimming Records in the 25 to 29 year old age group.

As well as her practical experience, Ms Barnes is highly qualified and experienced in high level coaching and development. She has a Bachelor of Human Movement and Sports Science, and holds a Swimming Australia Advanced Coaching Accreditation.

Her previous work experience has seen her work with QGSSSA and Andrews Cup teams across Senior, Intermediate, Junior and Mini Squad levels. Drawing on both her professional qualifications and competitive experience, Ms Barnes can explain technique corrections to athletes using appropriate learning styles for each individual. She is experienced in planning sessions and writing training programs for a range of different ages and abilities. In 2008, Ms Barnes was awarded a Sports Education Victoria certificate for completing an Adapted Physical Education Program for people with a disability.

These skills and experience are complemented by Ms Barnes’ attention to detail, communication and organisational skills. An enthusiastic and driven coach, Ms Barnes is looking forward to further developing the swimming program at IGGS and IJGS into a successful and reputable program.