Kids Programme
Our kids’ programme (ages 3+) helps children progress from beginners to confident swimmers who can perform all four strokes safely. Below is a clear, parent-friendly guide to choosing the right level, how to book, and quick links to helpful pages and FAQs.
Which level should I book?
Children should be able to do the following as a minimum requirement to join these levels:
NEW Beginners* - At least 3 years old. Scared to submerge. Generally aged 3 - 6 years.
Beginners - Are at least 3 years old. Will not submerge and/or cannot hold a float. Generally aged 3 - 6 years.
Beginners Advanced* - Are at least 3 years old. Can submerge but not float. Generally aged 3 - 6 years.
Paddlers - Can paddle at least 3 metres independently on top of the water. Generally aged 3 - 6 years.
Click this link if you're not sure if your child is a Beginner or Paddler?
Paddlers Advanced* - Are able to paddle 5 - 10m and roll on their back to breathe. Generally aged 3 - 6 years.
Strokes 1 - Able to do 4-6 strokes getting their arms out of the water and swim at least 25m by paddling and doing a safety roll. Generally aged 5 - 9 years.
Strokes 1 Advanced* - Able to swim non stop for at least 25 metres with a mixture of side breathing and rolling on their back. Generally aged 7 - 10 years.
Strokes 2 - Able to swim proper front crawl and backstroke non stop for at least 25 metres . Generally aged 7 - 10 years.
Strokes 3 - Able to swim multiple lengths of 25m front crawl, backstroke and breaststroke. Generally aged 8 - 12 years.
Pre-Squad - Able to swim at least 100 metres non stop in front crawl and 25m other strokes. Generally aged 9 - 14 years.
Notes on levels
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Levels are ability-based, not strictly by age. Use the skill descriptions to choose the best fit.
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Levels marked with * may not be offered at every location. If a starred level isn’t available, book the main level (Beginners, Paddlers or Strokes 1) that most closely matches your child’s skills.
Should my child attend with me?
Children attend classes unaccompanied to help them build trust with the coach and progress faster.
If you’re worried about leaving the poolside consider Tots classes or private lessons if you prefer to stay with your child.
Click this link to read our policy and guidance on unaccompanied lessons
Class format options: term based courses vs drop-in
Our standard classes run on a term basis. Typical term dates are:
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January – March
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April – June
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August – December
When you book a term course you and your child are committing to the full course for that term. This lets coaches plan progression and ensures steady learning.
Drop-in classes — flexible option
If you cannot commit to a full term, want to join after a term has started, or would like to try a class first, you can book a drop-in class. Drop-in places are limited. We only add them when there is an available spot on an existing course, so availability is not guaranteed. If you rely on drop-ins, check schedules regularly and book early when a spot appears.
Click this link for more on class formats and what to expect
How do I book?
For term based courses
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Go to Our Locations on the menu bar
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Select desired location
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Select desired class and click Book Now button
For drop in classes
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Go to Drop In Classes on the menu bar
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Use arrows to go to specific date
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Choose class that matches your child’s skills
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Select desired class and click Book Now button
Still not sure?
Feel free to contact us with your child’s age and current abilities for advice. If you have a recent video of your child swimming, it would be even better.
Check the FAQ page for more information.
Contact & enquiries
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Use the “Ask Us a Question” form at the bottom of this page and include your child’s age and current water skills to get faster placement advice.