Courses

We offer a range of courses for children aged 5 months to 18 years. Find out about our different levels and how our courses work.

School-age boy prepares to launch into backstroke.

Finding the right course

Which course your child should start in depends on their age and skill level.

Request an assessment

If you are unsure of what level is right for your child, you can request an assessment using our online booking form.

Babies and toddlers

Ages 5 months—3 years

Our courses for babies and toddlers are based on age. Your child will learn floating and kicking skills, and develop their enjoyment of and confidence in the water.

You or another parent or caregiver will need to be in the water with your child during the lesson.

Preschoolers

Ages 3—5 years

In these courses, your child will develop their swimming and water safety skills, building motor skills, self-esteem and confidence.

If your child has not yet learned to put their head underwater, they will start at the first level.

If they are comfortable putting their head underwater, they will need to come along to one of our pools for a free 5–10 minute swim assessment so we can see which level is right for them.

School-age children

Ages 5 years and up

Our courses for school-age children cater for all levels — from nervous beginners to children who can swim lengths.

Older beginners aged 8 to 18 years

If your child is aged between 8 and 18 years and has never swum before, we have special courses to get them off to a great start. Check out our programme for older beginners aged 8 and up.

Adapted lessons for swimmers with disabilities

If your child has special needs, an injury or a disability, you can book one-on-one lessons adapted for them. Email swimwell@wcc.govt.nz for more information.

Courses for adults

If you are looking for adult courses, see: Swimming lessons for adults

Private lessons

We also offer private lessons. Please email swimwell@wcc.govt.nz for more information.

Moving up a level

We assess your child continuously and will let you know when they're ready to move up to the next level. This can happen at any time, not just at the end of term.

You will need to choose a day and time that suits you for the new class and book your child in.

How to get ready for your course

So your child can get the most out of their lesson, make sure you are ready on poolside 5 minutes before your lesson starts.

They can have a small snack beforehand, but avoid giving them a large meal.

It's a good idea to take them to the toilet before the class.

All children who are under three and those over the age of three who are not toilet trained must wear an aqua nappy while in the pool (regular nappies are not to be worn). SwimWell provides a free reusable aqua nappy to all children in Infant term lessons. You can buy these at reception. For more information, see pool rules and safety.

Stay after the lesson to enjoy our facilities

You and your child are welcome to stay after the lesson to practise and play. Please note - normal pool entry fees apply for attending swim clubs, events and aquatic sports. For details of our four different facilities, see pools and services.