Queueing for swimming lessons?

Lunar_Eclipse

conradmum wrote: »

I've just found out that if I want to book my son in for swimming lessons at the local pool, I have to go on a particular day and queue up with all the other parents, and that places are given on a first come first served basis.

Yes it's how it works at our pool too. First parent queues outside from about 6am! Absolutely daft and naturally, the best teachers and time slots go to those already having swimming lessons. So 8am and 6.30/7pm on Sundays are usually available!

I also second the swimming club route. Kids can join ours from the age of four, as non-swimmers.

kennyboy66_2

Joining a swimming club is the best way to go. Membership at ours (family) is £45 a year & lessons are £2.50 per 1/2 hour. They have sessions on Friday evening, monday evening & sunday morning.

The standard of tuition is better than the average David Lloyd lesson my kids have had in the past (although one DL instructor was outstanding).

All swiming lessons have a surge of interest in September (new school year & realisation that holidays may be easier if kids can swim). The enthusiasm dies off and November or January are good times to approach councils / clubs.

As well as lessons, try and take you kids once a week to practice what they learn, gain more confidence & stamina.

Lunar_Eclipse

My two have recently joined our swimming team. They are 8 and 7.

From our experience I would say the teaching is of the highest standard possible, because of the competitive nature of a swimming club and their emphasis on bringing them on quickly and spotting talent early (their words). We only started three weeks ago; the girls are learning to dive and do tumble turns as part of their weekly lesson.

However it is also more expensive than other lessons. I pay £27/month plus £40/year club membership for each of them. The eldest could twice twice a week for this tuition fee, but we only go once a week currently. And there is no 'training' on two weekends this month due to Club Champs. Mine have decided not to participate, which is fine with me since it is too early for them and I do not want them to be scared off!