Children can start with GSC from 12 weeks old through our Discovery Ducklings programme. The best starting group depends on your child’s age, confidence and experience in the water.

No. Our pathway is designed to support complete beginners as well as children who already have some swimming experience.

Use our Stage Finder. Answer a few quick questions about your child’s age, confidence and swimming ability and we’ll help identify the best place to start.

Discovery Ducklings are the first step in our pathway, introducing babies and young children to the water in a fun, positive and supportive environment.

Parents or carers join children in the water for Parent & Baby and Parent & Toddler. Our Pre-school classes are taught without a parent in the water.

Ducklings help young swimmers become increasingly confident and independent in the water, developing their skills and swimming distance through Stages 1–4.

Club Squad is the next part of our Learn to Swim pathway. Swimmers develop their technique, skills, stamina and confidence in the main pool through Stages 2–7, as well as other relevant awards and badges.

Progression is based on ability and confidence rather than simply age or how long a swimmer has been in a class. Teachers continually assess swimmers and will recommend progression when they are ready.

Swimming involves lots of different skills, and children develop them at different rates. Spending longer at a stage gives swimmers time to build strong skills and confidence before progressing.

There is no set timescale. Progress varies depending on confidence, attendance, age, previous experience and individual development.

A swimming costume or trunks, towel and goggles where appropriate. Longer hair should be tied back and swimmers may also wish to wear a swimming cap. Equipment per stage will be emailed to you upon joining/progression.

Absolutely! We introduce swimmers to racing in a fun and supportive way through our Junior Galas. For example, Ducklings Stage 4 swimmers can take part in the 25m Ducklings race.

Swimmers ready to continue their development can progress into Marlins or Seals, depending on their ability and swimming goals.

Please tell us when enquiring or joining. Understanding your child’s individual needs will help us consider what support or adaptations may be appropriate.

Please get in touch with us. We’ll be happy to help with questions about classes, progression, joining GSC or finding the right starting point for your child.