Where are you based for swimming lessons?

Lessons are held at our very own pool at AQUAnimals Swim School, Unit 12 Rookery Business Park, Silver Street, Besthorpe,  Attleborough, NR17 2LD

How much do our courses cost?

Lesson costs do vary from term to term but are £12.50 per lesson. We offer a pay in full or monthly payment option by Direct Debit.

Are there parking spaces near by? 

Yes, we have 18 spaces by reception so parking is pretty easy.

Can we take photos of the lessons?

Photos can only be taken at the end of the swim classes (of your child only) providing consent has been given from the Instructor in advance. However, approximately every 6 months we run professional photo shoots to take above and amazing shots. For our next photo shoot, visit our ‘News page’. Please note we do not allow video recordings of our classes.

Does my child need to bring their armbands or other swimming aids? 

Our pool has all the equipment necessary for your child’s lesson. If the teacher feels that your child needs extra buoyancy aids they will supply them for you. Goggles would be helpful when in independent lessons. 

 At what age can children have lessons without a parent in the water?

Usually a child will have solo lessons at around 3 & half years of age, although this is dependant on the child, parent and teacher who will decide this together. We will aim to make this transition as smooth as possible and will happily ‘wean’ the parent away over a number of lessons. 

What do you do in lessons?

We deliver the Swim England learn to swim programme for stages outcomes / awards however we have written our own lesson plans a deliver a different theme every week! It takes a lot of planning and huge amount of theme related toy storage however having a theme makes learning fun, engaging and less scary. We use the themes to disguise drills, boosting kids motivation, focus and creativity while helping them master essential slills like floating and kicking through playful, story-based activities instead of repetitive tasks. Theme’s transform the pool into a magical and exciting world improving confidence and retention of skills learnt.

How do I book a place?

Complete a lesson enquiry and we’ll get right back to you. The online webpage collects info we need to be able to let you know what class is suitable by age and skill.. 

How do I re-enrol for the next course? 

Near the end of each course of lessons, you will be sent a re-enrolment invite to enable you to continue. Priority is given to those that are already in Swim school and who are not changing class, day and time, 2nd priority is then given to those that are already in Swim school who wish to change day or time. This priority is only given if the re-enrolment is received before the cut off date, which is usually the last week of a course. Once this date has been reached places will then be allocated to new enquiries. 

What if my child has a cold or is unwell? 

It is not wise to bring your child swimming with a heavy cold. Please consider the other children in your group as your child will spread infection and is unlikely to enjoy swimming at that time. Swimming lessons with AQUAnimals are tiring at the best of times, adding a swimmer who is already a bit under the weather won’t help!

If your child has an ear infection, please do not swim until it has cleared up. It is not likely to have been caused by swimming, however it will be uncomfortable and your child’s ear should be kept dry until it is clear. If your child has repetitive ear infections you can purchase ‘Ear Band’ for swimming, and seek advice from your GP or consultant. 

What changing facilities are available? 

Changing facilities are clean and lovely and warm at our pool. We have two very large changing rooms plus a Disabled changing room. We also have showers and nice toilet facilaties. We recommend you bring a travel mat for changing babies to make it comfortable for them.

Other than reception, we are a shoe-free zones please remove any outdoor shoes (including toddlers) before entering the wet side of the complex.

Can I practice with my child(ren) outside of classes and on holiday? 

Yes, all children are more comfortable in water the more they swim. Be aware that other pools may be cooler. 

Baby & Pre-school FAQ’s

At what age can I start swimming with my baby? 

AQUAnimals invite babies to swim with us around 12 weeks. Some parents prefer to wait until their first set of immunisations. 

What does my Baby/Toddler need to wear in the water? 

It is compulsory for all untrained children to wear our nappy system. This consists of a disposable or a washable swim nappy, which is widely available from supermarkets and baby shops, with a neoprene trunk over the top – sometimes called a ‘Happy Nappy’. After years of trial and error we only allow Splash About’s ‘Happy Nappy’ or Konfidence’s ‘Nappicova’ which is specially designed for baby swimming. 

 We have found that some other swim nappies can be ineffective as the seal around the thigh area is not tight enough.  It must be a snug fit; unfortunately we cannot allow any room for growth! You will not be allowed into the water without both correct nappies as nappy leaks into the water will result in cancelling classes for around two days to clean the pool! 

We also recommend ‘wraps’. We have been really happy with the price and quality of wraps and happy nappies at Two Bare Feet Boarding Co. and these can be purchased at http://www.twobarefeet.co.uk/wetsuits/baby-wetsuits/baby-wrap-warmers.html  but other brands are available, they even have matching sets!

Does my baby need immunisations before swimming? 

 Babies can go swimming at any age; they do not have had to complete their course of immunisation, we leave this for you to decide. Further research on this can be seen on the NHS website www.immunisation.org.uk 

 To attend a baby class do I need to be able to swim or go underwater myself? 

No, you can learn our techniques without putting your head under the water, though it is lovely to meet your baby underwater and share the experience. We will guide you as the parent as much as you need; we want this to be special bonding experience for both you and baby. 

Can I feed my baby at the pools? 

You are more than welcome to breast or bottle feed your baby with us. We are snack friendly so long as you help us by tidying up any mess.

Do I have to put my baby under water?

No, we understand that not all parents like putting their baby underwater as it goes against their natural instincts. AQUAnimals lessons will never force you or your baby to do anything that you are uncomfortable with. However, during our lessons you will be shown gentle techniques when you and your baby are ready to expand our skills. We provide opportunity and consistancy which usually in a child lead environment gives children the confidence to explore under water on their terms. You’ll be amazed how they will want to ‘jump in’ and surface and then turn to the side, ready to do it again at a young age.

 

 

 

Please note:

 

If you, your child or anyone in the family has had sickness bug and/or diarrhoea in the last 48hrs prior to the lesson, then you are requested not to visit or use the pool.
 You will never forget the day something by accident happens in the pool – believe us!  If your child has a heavy cold, sinusitis or an ear infection, they are requested not to swim. Our swimming lessons wear out children at the best of times!