Our Classes
What qualifications do the swimming teachers have?
All teachers have STA or ASA teaching qualifications, as well as poolside rescue tests which include first aid.
Do all the swimming instructors hold a DBS check?
Are the teachers in the water?
During COVID_19 it is advised that teachers are not in the water. Teachers will conduct the lessons from the side of the pool when possible, but the safety of our swimmers comes first and if a teacher needs to enter the pool for safety reasons, then they will do so. If teachers are in the water for any reason during the lesson, other than to perform a rescue, they will observe 2m distancing and wear a visor when appropriate.
How many children in a class?
There are up to four children and adult pairs in the baby and toddler classes and up to four children in the afterschool classes. There are up to six children in the classes at Hurst College.
Will the teachers help my child in the water?
Teachers will support beginner children in the water. This will mean they will support the children under their armpits, behind their head and back when needed. Also, they may assist with leg and arm movements and hold them under their tummy. If you do not want your child to be held in the water then you must make this clear at the time of booking. Teacher support of young children in the water is, however, vital to their learning to swim.
What time are the after school classes?
After school classes start from 3.45pm on a Monday, Tuesday and Thursday and are 30 minutes long. The last class time is usually 4.45pm or 5.15pm. Classes at Hurst College are at 7pm and 8pm on a Wednesday.
What age can children join the afterschool classes?
What time are the Adult and Baby classes?
Adult and baby / toddler and pre school classes run from 9.30am to 12 noon on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday.
What age can babies join the Adult and Baby classes?
Babies can start their swimming journey from as young as six weeks. Four months is usually a really good time start.
What are the cost of the classes?
Baby, Toddler and Pre School classes are £14.50 a lesson and paid for in advanced for six weeks at a total of £87. Afterschool lessons at Clayton are £12.50 and at Hurst College £11 each and usually paid for in advance for 12 weeks. During the uncertainty of COVID_19 the afterschool lessons are also being invoiced for six weeks
Are the swimming lessons term time only?
Yes. Simply Swim Sussex follows West Sussex School Term time.
What should my child bring?
What your child needs:
- Swimming costume/trunks
- Towel
- Goggles, if you have them
- Swimming hat – ask your teacher for a free Simply Swim hat. Your first one is free at the time of booking and then replacements are £3 each.
What nappy does my baby have to wear in the water?
Please ensure babies wear a double nappy protection when in the pool. This is a disposable swim nappy with a neoprene one over the top. We sell the Zoggs neoprene nappies for £10 if you are unable to get one. Please take all used swim nappies home with you for disposal.
Does my toddler have to wear a double nappy if it is potty trained?
If your child is in the process of being potty trained then they only need a disposable swim nappy. A neoprene nappy is not required if you are happy your child will tell you when he/she needs the toilet.
Should my child bring armbands and swimming aids?
No, your child does not need armbands or swimming aids in the lesson.
My child is a complete beginner and nervous, will they be okay in the lesson?
We will let your child learn at their own pace and give them time to settle into the lesson. We are experienced in helping many nervous children overcome their fears when starting swimming lessons.
Will my child have to put their face in the water?
No, we will not make your child put their face in the water. It is, however, something we encourage and practice until they are happy and confident to put their face in on their own. It is an essential skill for learning to swim.
Should my child wear goggles?
Bring goggles if you have them. It is good for children to be able to swim without their goggles, but they are useful in the water to protect children’s eyes from the chlorine in the pool.
How does the grouping work in the Adult and Baby classes?
Adult and baby classes are grouped according to age. Within the group, each child is taught to their ability and can progress at their own pace.
When will I know if my child is ready to move up in the afterschool classes?
Your child’s teacher will give the office a list in order of preference for the promotions to the next group that they would like to make, and you will be contacted by email if your child is ready to move.
Can both parents or more than one adult go in the pool with one child in the Adult and Baby classes?
Ideally, only one parent at a time should join the lesson, but if the class is quiet then it is sometimes possible for both parents to go in the pool. This has to be arranged prior to the lesson, through the office. This is currently suspended during COVID_19
What swimming awards can I expect my child to achieve?
How long will it take before my child can swim?
Each child is very different. Some children take to the water very quickly, and others will take a long time to learn the basics.
Can I watch my child’s lesson?
Yes, you can watch your child’s lesson. Please take your shoes off or use shoe covers provided. We also ask that you are quiet by poolside, as lots of parents chatting can be very distracting. This is currently suspended during COVID_19
Booking and Facilities
How do I book and pay for swimming lessons?
An invoice will be emailed to you, and you can pay by bank transfer.
What personal details do you need and why?
What if my child is unwell, can we make up the lesson?
Catch up classes are not offered for the afterschool classes.
My child has been ill with vomiting and/or diarrhoea, when can they return to swimming?
What illnesses must my child not swim with?
I’m going on holiday. Can I only pay for the lessons we will be attending?
No, you have to pay for the full course if you are going on holiday. The adult and baby and toddler lessons can make up a lesson if there is availability in a suitable class on another day.
What happens in the event of pool closures due to bad weather like snow, or for other reasons, such as teacher illness or problems with the pool?
If lessons are cancelled, then a credit will be applied to the invoice for the following term. If your child is not continuing their lessons during the next term then please contact the office for a lesson refund.
What changing facilities are available?
Are there separate Male and Female changing rooms?
Do all the pools have onsite parking?
What temperatures are the swimming pools?
The pools used for baby and toddler lessons run at 32 degrees Celsius. The larger pools run at 29 degrees Celsius.