The people behind every splash.

Our team is what makes Little Pearls special. From our directors to our newest teachers, every person here shares one belief: every child deserves to feel safe, supported and celebrated in the water.

Directors

Carrie & Penny

More than 20 years of combined teaching experience across both the swimming industry and the education department.

Carrie Hills, Managing Director at Little Pearls Swim School Cairns

Carrie Hills

Managing Director

As Managing Director, I'm passionate about creating a supportive environment where both children and team members can thrive. With a background in education and extensive experience in child development and program writing, I've taught all ages from 8 weeks to adults and supported swimmers to state championships.

I love seeing confidence and growth develop both in and out of the water โ€” now specialising in training others to deliver exceptional lessons. Outside of the Swim School, I enjoy being in nature and spending time with friends. There's nothing like sharing stories around a campfire or creek.

Penny Soper, Director at Little Pearls Swim School Cairns

Penny Soper

Director

As a proud, loving Mum to my beautiful daughter and a long-standing business leader, I've spent over 25 years in business, championing the belief that regional communities deserve the same high quality services and opportunities as any major city.

My passion for the aquatics industry led me to serve as a Director on the board of Australian Swim Schools Association for 7 years and I had the honour of presenting twice at the National ASCTA Conference. As a junior athlete who competed at national level across multiple sports, I now also love coaching athletics and empowering kids to thrive in their chosen sports.

Lead Teacher

Ana

Ana, lead swim teacher at Little Pearls Swim School Smithfield
Lead Teacher

My career began in Argentina, where after university, I taught PE and swimming and discovered how much I love supporting children's development through movement and water. Eventually I turned my career to the Swim School Industry, teaching and managing Swim and Sports programs.

I then moved to Colombia and worked within the Government's early childhood system, deepening my understanding of child-centred learning. Water has been part of my life for as long as I can remember, and I genuinely love being part of each child's journey as they grow in confidence and joy in the water.

Since moving to Australia, Little Pearls has become my home. As a Lead Teacher, I'm committed to creating meaningful aquatic experiences, supporting families, and continuing to grow both personally and professionally within a community I truly value.

Our teachers

The team in the water.

Every teacher at Little Pearls is an accredited member of ASCTA, trained in our trauma-free approach and chosen for their warmth, patience and love of kids.

Brent, swim teacher at Little Pearls Swim School Cairns

Brent

Swim Teacher

I love helping kids gain confidence in the water. I am all about fun lessons, big smiles, and seeing swimmers hit new milestones. When I'm not in the pool, I like to stay active, learn new skills, or dive into anything that keeps me moving.

Jess, swim teacher at Little Pearls Swim School Cairns

Jess

Swim Teacher

I'm a proud mum of two young boys who keep me busy and outdoors. We love spending our time camping, fishing and going on family adventures. Before swim teaching, I worked as a dog groomer, and now I truly enjoy helping babies and toddlers feel safe, confident and happy in the water.

Harri, swim teacher at Little Pearls Swim School Cairns

Harri

Swim Teacher

I began my journey in the swimming industry eight years ago under the guidance of Penny and Carrie. I enjoy teaching and supporting children as they build confidence in swimming and water safety. I've always enjoyed the outdoors, with rock climbing being my main pursuit as it is a constant source of challenge and inspiration.

Joshua, swim teacher at Little Pearls Swim School Cairns

Joshua

Swim Teacher

Joshua brings warmth and patience to every lesson, helping young swimmers feel safe and supported as they build confidence in the water.

Tailor, swim teacher at Little Pearls Swim School Cairns

Tailor

Swim Teacher

I recently moved to Cairns from Mackay to begin studying a Bachelor of Dental Surgery. I've always enjoyed working with children and helping others learn new skills, which is why I love teaching swimming. Outside of teaching and studying, I enjoy swimming, exploring the beautiful beaches around Cairns, and spending time reading. Being in and around the water has been a big part of my life, and I enjoy sharing that passion with young swimmers.

Martin, swim teacher at Little Pearls Swim School Cairns

Martin

Swim Teacher

I was a competitive swimmer for 10 years and competed at State competitions. I have been teaching swimming for 2 years and have experience as a pool lifeguard. I enjoy hiking in the outdoors and good food.

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Summer

Trainee Teacher

I'm an active and creative girl who loves MMA, art, and swimming. I enjoy pushing myself physically while also expressing my creativity. With a passion for the water, I am working toward the goal of becoming a swim teacher and helping others feel confident in the pool.

Reception & future teachers

Welcoming you to the pool.

Behind every smooth lesson is a friendly face at reception โ€” and the future Little Pearls teachers in training.

Amanda, reception at Little Pearls Swim School Cairns

Amanda

Reception

This swim school has been a special part of my family's life for many years. My boys have attended lessons here since they were just 4 months old, and watching their confidence and skills grow in the water has been a wonderful journey. As both a parent and now a staff member, I understand how important it is for families to feel welcomed, supported, and connected. I love being one of the first faces you see when you walk through the door and enjoy helping families with their swimming journey, whether they're just starting out or have been with us for years. Outside of the swim school, I'm a busy mum who enjoys cheering on my boys in all of their activities, volunteering at their school, or enjoying time with family and friends. I feel incredibly lucky to work in a place that has given so much to my own family over the years, and I look forward to welcoming yours to our swim school family too.

Faith, reception at Little Pearls Swim School Cairns

Faith

Reception

I am currently completing year 10 and have recently started working at Little Pearls on reception, which I very much enjoy. I look forward to learning and growing as much as I can and I aim to become a Learn to Swim Teacher in the future.

Ella, reception at Little Pearls Swim School Cairns

Ella

Reception

I am a friendly and dedicated member of the Little Pearls reception team. I love creating a welcoming experience for families when they walk through the door, and I'm passionate about helping young swimmers and their parents feel supported from the moment they arrive.

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Eva

Reception

I'm a Year 12 student with a passion for becoming a primary school teacher. I love staying active at the gym, going for walks along the beach, and giving back to the community through my volunteer work at the Salvos op shop and the Smithfield Child Care Centre.

What unites us

A team built on care and craft.

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Patient

Every child has their own pace โ€” and we move with theirs, not against it.

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Accredited

All teachers are accredited members of ASCTA. Continual learning is part of the job.

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Family-minded

We know parents are part of the lesson too โ€” and we love welcoming whole families.

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Passionate

From competitive swimmers to early-childhood educators โ€” we love what we do.

Come meet us in person.

Drop in for a tour or book a trial lesson โ€” we'd love to introduce your little one to the Little Pearls team.

Get in touch
Visit us in Cairns

1 Cumberland Avenue, Smithfield

Heated indoor pool ยท Boutique trauma-free lessons ยท Babies through to adults