Since 1977, Golden Coast has been committed to more than just delivering high-quality products to the wet leisure industry. The company’s mission has always included enriching professional knowledge and confidence to always deliver the best results. With technology evolving rapidly and innovations reshaping every aspect of pool and spa systems, staying informed isn’t optional: it’s essential. Opened in May 2024, The Golden Coast Academy rises to the education challenge. With a dedicated, purpose-built training centre designed to help wet leisure professionals understand, apply and master the tools and technologies that define today’s market. “We’ve always believed that expertise is just as important as equipment,” says Kristy Carlisle, Technical & Training Manager at Golden Coast. “The Academy brings that belief to life, giving professionals the confidence and skills they need to excel.”
Spanning two floors, the Academy offers an immersive, hands-on training environment. Upstairs, a dedicated technical suite features live control systems for real-time programming, diagnostics and troubleshooting. On the ground floor, a fully functional demonstration pool showcases innovations in lighting, covers and flow fittings, all supported by a working plant room, including Kuntze water treatment system. This isn’t just theory, it’s real-world learning. Whether you’re looking to understand how dosing systems respond to changes in water chemistry or how automation platforms like SPACE integrate with pool environments, you’ll learn by doing. “It’s all about making the learning real,” says Kristy. “We’ve created a space where engineers and installers can get hands-on experience with the systems they will actually be using in the field. No guesswork, no unnecessary theory.”
Since early 2025, the Academy has also featured a fully operational Tylö sauna installation. This dedicated set-up allows for live demonstrations of both installation procedures and in-use functionality, giving wellness professionals practical insights into design, integration and performance. “We saw a real need to expand into wellness training,” Kristy explains. “The Tylö installation lets us show customers exactly how these systems perform, not just in theory but in a working environment.”
The Academy is designed for flexibility. Every training session is custom-built to match your team’s needs. Whether you’re onboarding new staff or updating experienced engineers, we tailor content to your needs. Bespoke training days can cover any combination of chemical dosing, filtration, automation or energy efficiency. We also host manufacturer- led training sessions and product- focused events in partnership with leading brands. “No two companies are the same, and neither are their training needs,” says Kristy. “That’s why we work closely with every team to deliver something that’s not just informative but immediately useful.”
With nearly 50 years of industry experience and the support of Pollet Pool Group since 2022, Golden Coast is committed to offering not just equipment but education and ongoing support. Modelled in part on the successful PPG Academy in Belgium, the Golden Coast Academy brings that expertise to the UK. Sessions are led by experienced technical staff who combine product expertise with practical insights. Training is further supported by our GC KnowHow platform, an online library of video tutorials originally launched as Andy’s Answers in 2011.
The Academy offers flexible training opportunities throughout the year. Whether you’re prepping for peak season or using the quieter months for upskilling, the Golden Coast Academy is ready when you are. All training takes place at Golden Coast’s Newbury branch and can be booked online. Once registered, they will collaborate to create a high-impact session that delivers measurable value.
At Golden Coast, service and knowledge have always gone hand in hand. The Academy is a place for focused, practical development. Whether you’re new to the industry or looking to sharpen your skills, we’re here to help you grow.
The Golden Coast Academy supports the industry with knowledge, hands-on experience and a shared commitment to excellence. Reserve your place or enquire about tailored training at: www.goldenc.com/gc_ academy/academy-booking
