What to look for in a good swim school

12:28pm Saturday 3rd March 2007

ONE parent has asked what they should be looking for in terms of a good swimming school?

At Splish Splosh we firmly believe that each teacher should have the following qualifications and checks:

• NVQ Level 2 Teaching Award awarded by the Amateur Swimming Association
• Lifeguard qualification
• Police checked for working with children.

A swimming teacher should also have the necessary insurance needed to conduct lessons.

Splish Splosh is an ASA Swim School member and all teachers are covered by the Institute of Swimming Teachers and Coaches umbrella.

Apart from the qualifications, other things to be looking for are maximum class sizes of eight, no more than two classes being run at the same time, and, if possible, exclusive use of the pool solely for the lessons.

All equipment should be provided for by the swimming school which should follow the ASA Awards Scheme.

One important factor to check is that the lessons are fun and that the children enjoy the lessons while learning.

More hints and tips next week.

Meanwhile, if you have any questions you would like answering in this column, whether it is for adult, babies or children, send your questions by email to splishsploshswimmingschool@yahoo.co.uk and we will answer them in the next column or by return email.