The Berkeley Swim School - A Division of Berkeley Aquatic Club

For years, the Berkeley Swim School has been introducing young students to the thrill of learning to swim. It is a skill that can be used for safety, fitness and health and competition for a lifetime.

While we begin to offer classes as early as age 4, some children are still too young to fully gain the benefits of a swim lesson. We have not had much success with the child who is carried in arms to the poolside or with the students who are promised they will never have to put their faces in the water.

Teachers, parents and students all need to be brave facing the challenge of this new experience yet sensitive to the individual needs of the child. We treat each child with respect, realizing that development may be varied and inconsistent. For some, swimming will not be learned easily, while others pick up the activity quickly and effortlessly. Each student will be encouraged to progress at his or her own rate. Before each class, students are asked to use the bathroom facilities and to positively prepare for the lesson. Bathing suits and smiles are required of all students, as well as bathing caps on all girls and boys with long hair. Goggles are an option, but please, no masks, nose plugs, water shoes, rash guards or wet suits. The final day of each session is an observation opportunity for parents and friends. We never know what to expect in the performance of the students on these days but it is fun and students seem to enjoy having a friendly audience. Bring your cameras. We hope that your children will enjoy swimming and that they will always remember their experience at the Berkeley Swim School.