Child Swimming Lessons at AquaSwim

At AquaSwim, our child swimming lessons follow the STA International Learn to Swim Programme, a nationally recognised framework designed to build confidence, technique and essential water safety skills. Our lessons are suitable for children aged 3 years and above and are delivered in small groups or personalised 1:1 and 2:1 sessions to ensure every swimmer progresses at their own pace.
Our Learn to Swim Pathway (STA Awards) We use the STA award system to provide clear structure and measurable progression throughout your child’s swimming journey.

Stanley Awards (Ages 3–5)

Our Stanley classes are designed for younger children taking their first independent steps in the water. These awards focus on: Building water confidence and independence Safe water entry and exit Floating and basic movement skills Submerging the face and blowing bubbles Early propulsion and rotation This stage lays the foundations for safe, confident swimming in a fun and supportive environment. Please note: we do not offer the Starfish (baby) stage.

Octopus Awards

The Octopus awards introduce more structured swimming skills while continuing to build confidence and safety awareness. Swimmers work towards: Independent floating on front and back Streamlined gliding Basic front and back propulsion Improved body position and coordination

Goldfish Awards

At the Goldfish stage, swimmers begin to develop recognised swimming strokes and increase distance. This level focuses on: Front crawl and backstroke technique Breathing skills Swimming longer distances with control Developing stamina and confidence.

Angelfish Awards

The Angelfish awards prepare swimmers for greater independence and deeper water skills. Swimmers learn to: Swim up to 25 metres unaided Improve stroke technique and efficiency Introduce butterfly skills Perform surface dives and sculling Develop safe entries and exits.

Shark & Advanced Awards

The higher STA awards focus on water safety, survival skills and advanced swimming technique. These stages include: Water survival and self-rescue skills Treading water Basic rescue awareness Improved speed, endurance and stroke quality.

Specialist Pathways Alongside our core STA Learn to Swim programme, we offer specialist lessons for swimmers who want to explore advanced skills or future aquatic pathways.

Intro to Synchro

Our Intro to Synchro sessions are designed for confident swimmers who want to try artistic swimming in a fun, accessible way. These lessons focus on: Sculling and body control Coordination and rhythm Water confidence in deeper water Basic synchronised swimming skills This pathway is ideal for swimmers who have reached Angelfish level or above and are looking for a new challenge.

Lifeguard Academy

Our Lifeguard Academy introduces older and more advanced swimmers to essential lifesaving and rescue skills. This programme supports: Water safety and survival skills Rescue techniques and awareness Teamwork and responsibility Preparation for future lifeguard or lifesaving qualifications The Lifeguard Academy is perfect for swimmers progressing beyond the core STA awards who are interested in leadership, safety and real-world aquatic skills.

Lesson Formats

We offer flexible lesson options to suit every swimmer: Small group lessons, 1:1 lessons for personalised progress and 2:1 lessons for siblings or friends All lessons are taught by qualified instructors following STA guidelines, with a strong emphasis on safety, confidence and enjoyment.
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Progression & Awards Children are assessed continuously during lessons and progress through STA awards when they are ready — not based on age alone. Certificates and badges are awarded to celebrate achievements and keep swimmers motivated.​

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