Aqua Babies run classes at small, warm pools (often hydrotherapy pools). This also provides a calm environment. Each baby enters the water with a parent or carer.


There are between 6 and 10 babies each class depending on the pool size.
Classes in smaller pools run for 20 minutes with 6 babies Classes in larger pools run for 30 minutes with 10 babies. We aim to give structured sessions that develop natural swimming skills, use songs and rhymes to learn new skills and have lots of repetition for optimum learning.


Babies can begin classes as soon as parents are ready to bring them into the water. It is better to begin as soon as possible as the younger your baby the more natural the transition for both of you. We usually have a waiting list for courses so please contact us well in advance. We prefer your baby to be under 12 months old however we can start babies up to 18 months old.
Once your baby has begun classes you can remain with us until your baby reaches pre-school at about 4 years old


Your baby will begin on a preliminary 1 course lasting for around 10 weeks. During this course you will be able to pre-book the next level, preliminary 2. Future course levels include intermediate 1, intermediate 2, advanced, swim school and for our experts, pre-school. All babies begin on a preliminary 1 course, for a gentle introduction to water play, holds and submersions. Beyond this we move your baby through the class levels according to age, confidence and capability, always taking into consideration your baby as an individual. Our swim school toddlers are able to swim for long periods underwater to reach the side, jump in and return to the side of the pool and as their strength and co-ordination allow (usually around the age of 3) lift their head to take breaths without the use of arm bands.


Each level has a badge and certificate to celebrate your achievements. Our Swim school toddlers then receive a 5 metre badge before they graduate to pre-school and our pre-school children follow the STA Rubberdubbers scheme, without the use of armbands!


We are happy to swim babies with special needs. Swimming is an excellent activity for physical and mental development and is recommended by the Downs syndrome association. We would ask you to check with your specialist before booking.