The basic entry standard for the Skill Development (SD) is the ability to swim competently and to show promise. The aim of the SD  squad is to further the swimmers by means of extra coaching sessions and by encouraging them to take part in competition with swimmers outside Sunderland, e.g. Northumberland and Durham Counties (N&D), Durham and District Junior League teams.

Promotion to Competitive Development (CD) squad will be the joint responsibility of the SD coaches, (CD) Coach and the Head Coach