Patterson Lakes Swim School

Nik Stevenson-Smith started teaching in 1996. A few years later he was teaching in Scotland, working across 13 of Edinburgh Leisure’s learn to swim facilities.
After returning home Nik joined another swim school chain. For 15yrs he saw them grow from 3 sites to over 20.

At Patterson Lakes Swim School, we believe in value for money. All of our staff love making children safer sooner, though quality teaching, regular assessments and most importantly being a fun and caring place to learn. I can not wait to share and learn with our team and customers in such an amazing new facility. What a View!

How many students will I expect in the class ?

Never more than 4, or you receive a free class.
Our program is designed to increase your childs rate of progression.

Does the pool operate the same term times as schools?

Our lessons run 41 weeks a year. We understand families need time together, as we also understand the need for continual reinforcement of learning. .

What are the teacher Qualifications ?

All Swimming teachers are required to attain a nationally recognised teaching qualification - Swim Australia Teacher (SAT) qualification or Austswim. In addition, all staff complete internal training specific to our product.

Why is the pool so warm?

We maintain water temperature at the optimum level for teaching children to swim, ensuring they stay warm and comfortable during lessons. Experience has shown that cooler water makes learning difficult and causes children to lose interest in listening or even attending.

Is swimming more than once a week beneficial?

Extra lessons will always accelerates learning ( provided the teaching standard is satisfactory ) and it is our experience that children swimming more frequently progress faster through the levels.

How long will it take for my child to learn to swim?

How long did it take your child to crawl, then walk or throw a ball over your head ? Swimming lessons are a long-term process, rather than a once or twice occurrence. To create continuous skill development, lessons need to be a regular part of your child’s weekly routine. One 30min class every 7 days can permit time for swimmers to forget some of what they have practised previously. Not many of us have a photographic memory. Our program is designed to promote swimmers sooner. With never more than 4 students in a class, and teachers required to meet high standards, we will get your child to the best they can be as soon as possible. This will save you time and money.

Should I continue classes during winter?
Winter is a great time to keep your children active, healthy and building on their swimming skills. Our pool has consistent warm temperatures, making lessons comfortable all year round.

Who should I talk to regarding my child’s progress?

Our communication to you is important and that’s why we aim to provide. This is delivered personally to each parent by the deck Supervisors using assessment notes. Parents are welcome to stand with the Supervisor during assessments for “live” feedback.

What should I expect on day 1?

On your first day aim to arrive at least 15 minutes early. This will allow you and your child to get used to the environment and to see your child’s teacher beforehand. Classes will start on time so please do not enter the pool until requested. Students will leave the water after the class has finished. There are warm showers in the change rooms available.

What are the benefits of starting swimming early?

There is strong evidence that children who participate in regular swimming lessons at an early age are better prepared for learning. Water Confidence and Preschool programs emphasise safety and survival skills. Importantly children who are comfortable and confident in the water at an early age are better prepared in the case of an emergency.

https://www.google.com.au/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwjw-tCjrMfKAhWIJZQKHZyPCLEQFggbMAA&url=https%3A%2F%2Fapp.secure.griffith.edu.au%2Fnews%2F2012%2F11%2F15%2Fswimming-kids-are-smarter%2F&usg=AFQjCNFCRcB-PDR3yfEU-Q5z4mZ_34_TIw

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fmh1sOTo4Iw


Can I change my lesson time when my baby changes sleep schedule ?

You are welcome to change your lesson time anytime. We will do our best to find a time that best suits you.

What is your cancellation policy?

No lock in contracts. You can leave the program at any time, however you should notify us before the end of the current month so that we can cancel the following month’s direct debit.

What is a Free Lesson Assessment?

Every new swimmer will be assessed to establish which class level best suits their abilities prior to their first paid lesson. These assessments take roughly 10 minutes , but swimmers can enjoy a free 30min class. On completion we will work with you to find a class time that best suits your schedule.

We offer two payment methods. Direct debit per fortnight and upfront payment in full for the term (public holidays and closure weeks are not counted - you will not pay for days you don't swim). There is no disadvantage in either choice and both work out the same weekly fee

Do you provide make-ups, credits or refunds for missed lessons?
If you miss a class, and we have a spot, you are welcome to join in. No need to call, just book in for the makeup when you’re next in. You even have the whole term to use your missed class ( provided there is a spot )


Will I need to get in the water ?

In parent and child infant levels, a parent is required in the water. We are instructing the parent and the parent / guardian then teaches the swimmer. We also recommend that you wear a top that can be used by your child to promote their strength in climbing.

What if my child cries ?

It is rare a child will not cry. Please do not give up and get out. Move away from the class and reassure your swimmer. You will keep receiving a free trial lesson until your child is calm, therefore more focused on the required tasks. We must give our children time to grow in confidence and this can take more than one free trial.


Program


Can be joined at any week of the year. We will assess your swimmer into the most suitable class and progress you through the levels at your child’s required speed. We assess every 8-10 weeks ( minimum )

We run classes for infants through to school aged swimmers. Only 4 students per class for any class. The level program will assist in your child’s confidence. There are 2 main assessment tasks per level. Once the tasks have been displayed as learnt, your child will progress to the next level.


Parent Resource

My Child doesn’t like to wet their face or their hair


Accidental water splashing on their face , while they are in control is the quickest way to promote being comfortable around water. Try insisting on your child to shower – without a shower cap. Start with once a week and move to multiple times. Whilst in the shower, encourage and praise their progress. Be careful not to introduce shampoo into the shower experience. It may work against you.


How do I get my child back into the pool?

There isn’t a one-size fits all approach. Firstly understanding why they don’t want to swim is an integral part. Allow them to verbalise this. Without assuming their reason , it could be something as simple as they thought another child said something they didn’t appreciate. The life experience of interacting with different people has no substitute. Please talk to your pool deck supervisor before giving up.


Community News

Three out five children leaving primary school
can't swim shock statistics reveal

http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/three-out-five-children-leaving-primary-school-cant-swim-shock-statistics-reveal-20141218-129udu.html


Crackdown on inflatable Pools

http://www.aww.com.au/latest-news/news-stories/crackdown-on-inflatable-pools-24950


New swim program throws kids in the deep end

http://www.3aw.com.au/news/new-swim-program-throws-kids-in-the-deep-end-20160126-gmen4c.html