Learning to swim is more than just a life skill—it’s a journey of confidence, technique, and enjoyment. At PoolSchools, we believe in making that journey as engaging and effective as possible. That’s why we developed the AquaQuacks swimming scheme, a carefully structured programme that prioritises technique over arbitrary distance goals, ensuring every learner becomes a strong and capable swimmer.
A Gradual and Encouraging Approach
Since 2003, PoolSchools has taught over 100,000 children and adults through the AquaQuacks scheme. We take a step-by-step approach, focusing on core skills in a natural learning order. This means students develop their abilities progressively, with confidence-building at the heart of every lesson.
Our FUNdamental classes lay the groundwork, helping young swimmers get comfortable in the water while learning essential movement skills. As they progress, they move on to more independent swimming, where we introduce all four strokes with a focus on correct technique. By structuring lessons this way, we avoid the common pitfall of pushing distance before swimmers are ready, allowing them to build stamina naturally.
Technique First, Distance Follows
AquaQuacks places a strong emphasis on technique from the very start. Rather than simply encouraging swimmers to cover a certain number of metres, we focus on refining their strokes, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness in the water. This foundation makes it easier for swimmers to build endurance without compromising on form.
Floatation aids play a key role in our teaching method. Unlike traditional lessons that limit float use to beginners, we incorporate them at every level to fine-tune stroke development. This approach allows swimmers to focus on specific elements of each stroke before attempting them unaided, reinforcing good habits early on.
Engaging Lessons for Maximum Progress
Keeping swimmers actively engaged is essential for progress, which is why AquaQuacks lessons are designed to be interactive and immersive. Repetition plays a big role—by practising key skills regularly, students naturally increase their swimming time and distance. We also make full use of the pool space, encouraging students to explore deeper water in a safe and controlled environment. However, we never push beyond individual ability levels, ensuring a supportive and comfortable learning experience.
Another key feature of our scheme is layering skills throughout all levels. Instead of introducing advanced techniques later, we teach the building blocks of all four strokes, as well as diving and tumble turns, from the very beginning. This makes the learning curve smoother, as swimmers are already familiar with core elements when they reach higher levels.
The AquaQuacks Difference
Our approach ensures that every swimmer, regardless of their starting point, develops strong, confident strokes that serve them for life. By prioritising technique and confidence-building, we create swimmers who can move efficiently and powerfully through the water, rather than just covering distances without proper form.
Ready to experience the AquaQuacks difference? Whether you’re looking for lessons in Surrey, Kent, or Essex, our expert instructors are here to guide you every step of the way. Book a class today at PoolSchools and take the first step towards mastering the water!