Swimming Lessons Terms and Conditions

Adult and child swimming lessons

Tiny Quackers, Discovery Ducklings 1-4, Ducklings 1-4

  • 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 pools and poolside temperatures in line with current guidance; however, pool water temperatures can vary and can feel different for each swimmer, so we recommend bringing a towel to poolside with you so you can wrap up your little one before going to the changing area.

All swimmers

Clothing and accessories

  • All children should wear appropriate fitting costumes/trunks and shorts specifically designed for swimming. Baggy costumes/trunks can obstruct movement. Specially designed swimwear can be purchased online for those with religious requirements.
  • No jewellery should be worn during a swimming lesson. Religious or medical bracelets are allowed but should not distract the swimmer from their lesson.
  • The use of goggles is permitted but pupils will be asked to remove them if they are causing a distraction and when performing certain skills (unless there is a medical reason for goggles to be worn). We recommend the use of prescription goggles for anyone with a visual impairment.

Class progression and asssessment

  • Every child is different and will progress at different rates- celebrate each milestone. It might take a few weeks to get settled but it will be worth it. If you have some challenges, please speak to your swimming teacher who will be able to give you advice and guidance.
  • Teachers will assess swimmers continuously using the Swim England Learn to Swim Scheme and recommend movement when appropriate.
  • Class movement is subject to availability, and when a stage is passed, it may be necessary to change days and/or teachers.
  • When your child has achieved an award, please collect from reception for a small fee. We follow the Swim England award pathway; details on the Swim England Frameworks can be found here: https://www.swimming.org/learntoswim/introduction-to-the-swim-england-learn-to-swim-pathway/

Photography filming and mobile phones

  • Photography and filming using any form of media capturing equipment (including mobile phones) is not allowed on the poolside, surrounding areas or changing areas.
  • Please be aware that our official marketing team may occasionally capture professional photography or footage for promotional purposes. We will always inform you in advance if filming is scheduled to take place.
  • If you wish to celebrate your swimmer’s success with a photo, please do so in reception with our selfie boards.

Spectating

  • At Fenton Manor Sports Complex, spectating is allowed in the viewing areas above the pools. Parents and guardians will not be allowed to spectate from the poolside unless it is required for medical reasons.
  • At Dimensions Leisure Centre, there are allocated seats near the teaching pool for you to spectate your child’s lessons.
  • At New Horizons Sports and Leisure spectating is from the changing room window area.

Teacher absence cover and continuity

  • We may provide a cover teacher without prior notice.
  • Lessons will continue where possible when the regular teacher is absent and suitable qualified cover will be provided.
  • Teacher changes do not constitute grounds for refunds or credits.

If a child refuses to enter the water

  • If a child refuses to enter the water, teachers will encourage participation but cannot provide 1:1 support.
  • Time lost due to refusal cannot be refunded or credited.

Late arrivals, missed lessons and attendance

  • If a swimmer is late for a lesson, they may not be admitted, if they are, please understand that they will miss certain parts of the syllabus being taught on that day.
  • Missed lessons cannot be refunded, rescheduled, or transferred to another session.
  • All lessons are non-refundable. If a child becomes ill and cannot attend their lessons for an extended period, a credit note will only be issued on receipt of a doctor’s note or letter from the hospital.
  • Credits will not be provided for holidays or general childhood illnesses.
  • Please be aware that in the event lessons are cancelled by the centre, you will be given a lesson credit.

Pool closure, temperature and maintenance

  • Lessons may be cancelled at short notice due to maintenance, water quality, staffing, or safety issues.
  • If a cancellation is made less than 24 hours before your lesson, you will receive a telephone call as well as an email.
  • Where lessons are cancelled by the centre, a credit will be applied.
  • Pool temperature may vary due to operational requirements.

Special offers

  • Free swimming for children at the site they swim at and a 50 % discount for two accompanying adults and up to two siblings that are swimming at the same time. Centre admissions policy and ratios will apply.

Parking and arrival guidance

  • Parking is chargeable at Fenton Manor Sports Complex and Dimensions Leisure Centre. Parking at New Horizons Sport and Leisure is free. Please refer to your centre for the most up to date charges.
  • Please arrive to your lessons with time to get changed and put your items in a locker (charges apply), but do not enter the pool area more than 5 minutes before your lesson.

Equality inclusion and reasonable adjustments

  • We welcome swimmers with additional needs and will make reasonable adjustments where possible.
  • Parents should discuss any support needs before lessons begin.