Learn to swim with Active Stoke
We’re proud to deliver high-quality, STA-accredited swimming lessons at Dimensions Leisure Centre, Fenton Manor Sports ComplexNew Horizons Leisure Centre. Our structured programme supports swimmers from their very first splash through to advanced technique and water safety skills. For further information about the awards criteria, please visit International Learn to Swim Programme – STA.co.uk
Whether you're a parent looking to build your child’s confidence in the water or an adult wanting to improve your strokes, our lessons are designed to be inclusive, progressive, and fun.
All children on swimming lessons receive free access to swimming during public swims for the duration of their lessons, at the site they attend their lesson.
Baby and toddler lessons
Our journey begins with Starfish levels, designed for babies aged 6 months and up. These in-water parent and child sessions focus on water confidence and basic movement through play.
Available at Dimensions Leisure Centre and Fenton Manor Sports Complex.
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Early years and beginners
Awards – STA.co.uk
Stanley 1-7: These levels introduce essential swimming skills such as floating, kicking, and breathing techniques. Children progress at their own pace with support from qualified instructors. Suitable for 3 to 5 years. Parents are required in the water with the child up to and including Stanley 4, after which children are in the water by themselves.
Octopus: Introduce young swimmers to the fundamentals of water confidence, including floating, kicking, and basic breathing skills. Children build these foundations at a pace that feels right for them, supported and encouraged by qualified instructors throughout. Suitable for 6 years+.
Available at Dimensions Leisure Centre, Fenton Manor Sports Complex and New Horizons Sports and Leisure.
You can book your child into our beginner-level classes, including Stanley 1 and Octopus 1, by enquiring directly with us.
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If you believe your child may be ready for a more advanced level, we recommend arranging a swimming ability assessment first. To book, please email swimminglessons@stoke.gov.uk
Improvers and intermediate
Goldfish: Builds stamina and refines technique across all strokes.
Angelfish: Introduces more advanced skills including diving, treading water, and swimming longer distances.
Shark: Prepares swimmers for competitive swimming and advanced aquatic skills.
Available at Fenton Manor Sports Complex and New Horizons Leisure Centre.
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Advanced and lifesaving skills
Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards: These levels focus on endurance, technique, and water safety. Swimmers learn rescue skills, survival techniques, and complete timed swims.
Platinum Award: The final stage of the STA programme, recognising excellence in swimming ability, fitness, and water safety.
Available at Fenton Manor Sports Complex and New Horizons Leisure Centre.
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Adult swimming lessons (16+)
Supportive instruction for adults learning to swim or improving their technique.
Available at Fenton Manor Sports Complex and New Horizons Leisre Centre.
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The charge of £74.00 is payable upon booking for a 10 week block of lessons, at half an hour per week. We also provide a Home Portal, where you can keep up to date with your child’s progress and top up lessons as you go.
