Learn to Swim

Learn to Swim Programs - Test

There are many learn to swim programs offered throughout Victoria. Lessons are available through:

• School programs
• Your local aquatic centre or swim school.

When choosing a learn to swim program, make sure the lessons meet the following standards:

• Qualified teachers - check to see if all the teachers hold an AUSTSWIM certificate
• Class ratios - beginner classes should have no more than ten children. This ratio will change with the ability of the child and the type of water environment for which the lesson is being held.
• Water temperature - warm water is important for very young children.

When can you learn to Swim?

• Formal 'water familiarisation' classes are recommended for infants 6 months of age and older. Before this, water play activities in the bath at home can be fun. 
• The initial stages of learning with very young children are based on developing confidence and making the child comfortable in a water environment.
• Until the age of about 4 years of age programs involve the parent participating with the child in the water.
• When children are 4 years of age and over they can begin formal swimming instruction and work independently in a group with other children (without parents).
• For many parents the main reason for taking swimming lessons is to ensure their children are safe in and around water. Water safety skills are an integral part of lessons.

Contact Swimming Victoria on (03) 9686 5222 to find the location of your local swimming club or the nearest swimming coach.

Contact AUSSI Masters on (03) 9682 5666 for information on swimming training for adult swimmers.

There are a range of lifesaving awards that will help develop your skills in the various lifesaving and survival strokes. For further information about finding your local life saving club please contact Life Saving Victoria.

How to Become a Teacher

Being a swimming and water safety teacher can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience. There is a nationally recognised qualification known as the 'AUSTSWIM Teacher of Swimming and Water Safety Certificate', which can be used throughout Australia.

Go to www.austswim.com.au to find out about how to gain this qualification or call (03) 9562 7900 or 1300 885 529. Alternatively, please go to www.aquaticsandrecreation.org.au or call (03) 9271 3800.