Learning to swim is a key life skill and it’s never to early or late to start. From babies to adults of all ages, everyone can benefit from developing their skills and confidence in the water. Our swimming lesson programme is suitable for all abilities, whether you are a beginner or need to develop water confidence or improve your technique. Our programmes are based on the Swim England Learn to Swim Pathway.
Swimming lessons for children
Swimming lessons can provide youngsters with the skills to enjoy themselves and get out of a potentially life-threatening situation.
There are a number of swimming lesson stages to work through based on age and swimming ability.
Our swimming lesson programme starts from birth, offering sessions for babies and toddlers to develop their water confidence with parents joining in the sessions. From four years old, your child can join our programme where they will learn to swim independently, develop their technique and water safety skills. For young people we also offer Aqua Youth and Rookie Lifeguards.
Our swimming lesson package includes one lesson per week and unlimited access to general swimming sessions across all our ten pools (fun, inflatable and splash tots sessions are not included).
Please note: All lessons will also include time for swimming teachers to take registers and update progress.
Your family’s safety is a top priority. We operate a Pool Safety Policy to ensure a safe environment for everyone.
Swimming lessons for adult and Child/Pre School Lessons
- All children must be accompanied in the water by a responsible adult/parent or guardian.
- We recommend a ‘double nappy’ policy for all children under 3 years old. A snug-fitting neoprene swim nappy should be worn with a disposable or re-usable swim nappy underneath.
- We operate our pool and pool hall temperatures in line with current guidance; however, pool water temperatures can vary and can feel different for each swimmer. For those pools without a dedicated learner pool, we recommend putting your little one in a neoprene wrap/wetsuit to keep them cosy and taking a towel to poolside with you so you can wrap up your little one before going to the changing area.
- Every child is different and will progress at different rates. It might take a few weeks to get settled but it will be worth it. If you have some challenges, please speak to your class teacher who will be able to give you advice and guidance.
- When your child has achieved an award please pick this up from reception for a small fee.
Important information for swimming lessons
- Swimwear: All children must wear appropriately fitting swimwear designed specifically for swimming. Baggy costumes or trunks can restrict movement and affect performance in the water.
- Jewellery: No jewellery should be worn during swimming lessons. Exceptions are made for religious or medical bracelets, provided they do not distract the swimmer.
- Goggles: Goggles are allowed, but may be removed during certain activities or if they become a distraction. If your child has a medical need to wear goggles at all times, please let us know.
- Progress: Every child progresses at their own pace. It may take a few weeks for your child to settle in, but with time and encouragement, they will gain confidence and skills.
- Awards: When your child achieves an award, you will receive an email notification. Certificates can be collected from reception for a small fee.
Swimming lesson progress
As part of our swimming lesson package we provide you with access to Course Hub which gives you the ability to track the learners swimming progress. Each learner in the programme can be added to your account so you can view the information in one place. To access Course Hub you will need to login via your Leisure Hub account. Once you have access to Course Hub via your Leisure Hub account, you will be able to:
- Follow the learners swimming progress.
- Get notified when awards are achieved.
- Move classes when a ‘movement’ is made available (e.g. for those moving up a stage or those who have requested a different day/time)
- Make payments
Swimming lessons for adults
Our adult swimming lessons cater for all abilities. If you are a complete beginner or confident in the water but want too improve your technique there’s a session for you.
Our swimming lesson package includes one lesson per week and unlimited access to general swimming sessions across all our ten pools.
Private swimming lessons
If you would like to top up your swimming skills or maybe improve one of your swimming strokes then why not book some private swimming lesson. Available at selected sites across the County, contact us today to find out more or ask at your local leisure centre.
How to join the swimming lesson programme
You can sign up by clicking here.
Our swimming lesson programme runs continuously throughout the year, allowing children and adults to progress at their own pace. Our Programme follows a structured, progressive pathway with awards given at each stage to reflect success at each step and encourage development.
Check our leisure centre terms and conditions for more information about cancellations, refunds, direct debits, Bank holidays, teacher changes, and memberships.
If you are interested, ask about swimming lessons or contact your local leisure centre.