About Our Classes

What do I need to bring to my lesson?

Swimming costume / trunks (Please note that swimming is easier if snug-fitting swimwear is worn. Baggy surf shorts cause drag and resistance in the water) Towels We prefer swimming hats to be worn by swimmers with long hair, which should also be tied back. We have our own soft cloth hats for beginners to use, as well as silicone hats You don’t need to bring any floats or floatation-wear We ask that young infants wear swim nappies in the pool

What do parents/carers do during lessons?

Unless your course specifically states (eg babies and infants), parents do not get in the water with their child. Parents of younger children must stay for lessons and offer support if necessary. Parents of swimmers up to the age of 16 must remain in the building at all times. There is plenty of space poolside to sit. Please make sure no distraction or disruption to the lesson is created – phones on silent etc. The entire Lancing College campus is non-smoking.

What if my child won’t get in the pool?

Some children can find the environment a little overwhelming at first; we always expect a few nervous children (and parents!). We are more than happy for your child to watch and participate when they are ready. Please do not feel that if your child is not in the pool they are wasting time. We would prefer a child to enter willingly rather than feel forced – this is all part of the process.

A note on nappies…

If your child is not completely toilet trained, neoprene over-nappies MUST be worn. Please talk to us if you have an older child with toilet difficulties that may impact on their time in the pool.

How can I prepare my child for swimming lessons at home?

For beginners, baths are a great opportunity to build water skills and confidence. Practice putting chins, noses, cheeks and faces in the water, blowing bubbles, and lying on their front and back with their ears in the water. Go for fun family swims. Talk to your child about their swimming lessons in advance – getting ready, meeting the teachers, fitting swim aids, etc – and keep that dialogue going after their lesson too. Give them lots of positive praise and support in, and outside of, their lessons. We have a visual story available for new Penguins so they can see in advance what to expect.