Your questions, answered.
Everything parents ask us most about lessons, uniforms, make-ups and enrolment. Can't find your answer? Our office team is happy to help.
Classes start from six months old. Starting early helps, but starting later does not matter at all.
A foundation program that builds technique and water safety through our own circular learning system. Programs cover water introduction, water safety, stroke development, competition, Championship and adult swimming.
It depends on the child, and more time in the water means faster progress. We suggest two lessons a week for complete beginners, and three to four for competitive swimmers.
Yes. Adult classes have a maximum of six students per instructor and cover water safety, breaststroke, backstroke, freestyle and butterfly. Most adults need about three to four terms to learn.
We do not give refunds for a change of mind, so please choose a day and time that suits your family when you book.
There is no fixed number. One lesson a week can develop a champion, but more lessons help children learn sooner and build confidence.
Aids let children move freely and become independent without fear, and we reduce them as confidence grows. Our pools are full depth, so aids also keep children safe beyond the shallow step area. Instructors adjust the aids every lesson.
Our instructors assess the risk of swimming without aids. If your child is at risk, we give them a suitable aid.
No. The facilities are not considered safe outside lesson times and the pool is not lifeguarded, so we do not offer free swim.
Our staff come from many cultures. We teach in English, Mandarin, Russian, Filipino and Cantonese. For other languages, please ask our administration team.
We discourage goggles for children who are learning safety skills, because they can be a distraction. If your child wears them, please bring your own; goggles are also sold at the admin counter. A Shelly Swimming cap is part of the uniform for every student. The cap and goggles are included in the original enrolment fee package.
Boys wear swimming trunks and/or a rash shirt. Girls wear a one-piece swimsuit, or a two-piece rash shirt and bottoms. Skirts and wings are not allowed, and swimwear must fit well.
A light t-shirt, light shorts, closed shoes (for example Crocs) and a swimming cap. No goggles.
It is a Service NSW voucher for children's sport. You can use it toward lesson fees, and either our office or you in the parent portal can apply it. Only one voucher can be used at a time. Check the Service NSW website for eligibility.
By email and SMS through our online system. There is also a parent portal where you can cancel and book make-up lessons without calling the office.
Yes. You get two make-up classes per weekly lesson each term (for example, two lessons a week gives four make-ups). Please tell us 24 hours ahead when your child will be absent, and book the make-up in the parent portal. We do not offer emergency make-ups for illness. For complex situations, please speak to the office.
Contact our office team. There are several ways to enrol, and we will help you choose the right class and venue.
Find a venue near you, or talk to our friendly office team about classes and availability.