What is the difference between pool and area on the form?
Preferred pool is which of our pool locations you want to swim at. Your area is the town you live in or travel from. Both help us match you to the right class.
Help and support
Frequently asked questions
Answers about booking, lesson types, fees and our pools. If you cannot find what you need, send an enquiry or call 07901 990902.
Jump to a topic below, or scroll through every answer. For lesson fees see swimming lesson pricing, and for pools see our venues.
Booking & contact
Booking enquiries
How quickly will you reply?
We aim to respond within a few working days. For urgent enquiries, call 07901 990902.
What should I include in my message?
Who the lessons are for, any experience in the water, preferred days or times, and whether you prefer group or private lessons.
How do I book?
Send an enquiry or call 07901 990902. Tell us who the lessons are for and your preferred area and we will advise on availability.
Lessons
Swimming lessons in general
What age can my child start swimming lessons?
Parent and baby classes start from 3 months. Independent children's stages typically begin from around 3 years when swimmers move into Stage 1 without a parent in the water.
Are lessons grouped by age or ability?
By ability. Children are placed in groups where they feel confident and can progress at the right pace, rather than being grouped purely by age.
What Swim England awards will my child receive?
Swimmers earn Learn to Swim Stage badges (1–10) as they progress, plus distance badges alongside their stage awards.
Should we choose group or private lessons?
Group lessons are great for social progression and value. See our group lesson fees. Private lessons suit swimmers who want focused, flexible coaching, from £47 per session or blocks of five.
How much do swimming lessons cost?
Group lessons are £42.50 per month on Mondays (excluding bank holiday Mondays) or £46 per month Wednesday to Saturday. Advanced groups (Stages 8–10) are £54 for a one-hour lesson. The monthly fee stays the same whether there are four or five weeks. Private lessons start from £47 for a one-off 1-to-1 session. See full lesson fees.
Where are lessons held?
We teach at pools across Bolton, Chorley and Greater Manchester. View our swimming lesson venues.
Baby & infant
Parent and baby swimming
When should my baby start swimming lessons?
Classes are suitable from 3 months, once you and your health visitor are happy for your baby to attend pool sessions. There is no upper age limit within the parent-and-child programme before moving to Stage 1, though most swimmers transition around 3 years.
Do I need to get in the water with my baby?
Yes. A parent or guardian joins their child in the pool for every parent and baby lesson. This continues until your child is ready for independent Stage 1 classes.
What should we bring to a baby swimming lesson?
A swim nappy (and ideally a neoprene cover), your child's swimwear, a towel and your own swimwear. Goggles are not usually needed at this stage. Your instructor can advise on any venue-specific requirements when you book.
When will my child move to children's lessons?
When your child is confident and developmentally ready, usually around 3 years, they can start Stage 1 without a parent in the water. See children's swimming lessons for the full progression pathway, or read our guide when should my baby start swimming lessons?
Children
Children's swimming lessons
What age can my child start children's swimming lessons?
Independent children's stages typically begin from around 3 years, when swimmers are ready for Stage 1 without a parent in the water. Younger children from 3 months can start in our parent and baby classes.
Are children's lessons grouped by age or ability?
By ability. Your child is placed where they can progress confidently, not purely by how old they are.
What awards will my child receive?
Swimmers earn Swim England Learn to Swim Stage badges (1–10) as they progress, plus distance badges alongside their stage awards.
Should we choose group or private lessons for our child?
Group lessons offer great social progression and value. See group lesson fees. Private lessons suit children who want focused coaching or need to build confidence quickly. Compare private lesson options, or read group vs private swimming lessons for a fuller comparison.
Adults
Adult swimming lessons
Can I learn to swim as an adult if I never learned as a child?
Absolutely. Many of our adult swimmers start from scratch. Our instructors specialise in helping nervous and beginner adults build confidence step by step.
What should I bring to my first adult swimming lesson?
Swimwear, a towel and goggles if you use them. You do not need to be fit or athletic to start. Arrive a few minutes early so you can get changed and meet your instructor before the session begins.
How many people are in an adult group class?
Group sizes vary by venue and ability level. Classes are kept small enough for instructors to give individual attention while maintaining a supportive group atmosphere.
How often should I attend adult swimming lessons?
Weekly lessons work well for steady progress. Consistency matters more than intensity. Your instructor can advise on a realistic schedule based on your goals and current ability.
Private lessons
Private and 1-to-1 tuition
What is the minimum age for private swimming lessons?
Private lessons are available for swimmers aged 3 and above. Younger babies attend parent and baby classes with a guardian in the water.
Should I book a one-off lesson or a block of five?
A one-off session is ideal for a trial or a single technique focus. A block of five offers better value and suits swimmers working towards a clear goal over several weeks.
Can siblings or friends share a private lesson?
Yes. Our 1-to-2 and 1-to-3 formats let two or three swimmers of similar ability share one instructor. This works well for siblings or friends who want to learn together.
How do I book private swimming lessons?
Send an enquiry or call 07901 990902. Tell us the swimmer's age, ability, preferred area and whether you want 1-to-1, 1-to-2 or 1-to-3 tuition.
Advanced
Advanced coaching and club pathways
When is a swimmer ready for advanced coaching?
Typically when they are confident across main strokes, have completed or are near completing Stage 7, and show readiness for more structured training. Your child's instructor will advise when advanced or link-group sessions are appropriate.
What happens at a club coach assessment?
The club coach observes swimmers who have completed our learn-to-swim programme and link-group preparation. They assess readiness for Bolton Swimming Club training. There is no pressure to join; the assessment confirms whether club swimming is the right next step.
Can adults access advanced coaching?
Yes. Adults who want stroke refinement or fitness-focused coaching can book private lessons or discuss options via adult swimming lessons.
How do I enquire about advanced swimming coaching?
Send an enquiry or call 07901 990902. Tell us your swimmer's current stage and goals and we will recommend the right pathway.
Venues
Pools and locations
Do you teach children's stage lessons at Ecclestone?
No. Ecclestone runs nursery swimming lessons only, with transport provided to and from the venue. Older children join group programmes at our Bolton pools.
Can I book a private lesson at Health Hub Sharples?
Yes. Private tuition is available at Health Hub Sharples subject to instructor and lane availability. Tell us ages and goals when you enquire.
Are private lessons available at St Catherine's?
No. This venue runs group lessons. For private tuition, ask about Health Hub Sharples or other available slots.
Is parking available at St Catherine's?
St Catherine's Academy has site parking used during lesson times. Arrive a little early for the first visit so you can find the pool entrance.
Manchester residents
Residents-only pools
Can non-residents book lessons at Deansgate Square?
No. This pool is residents only. Public lessons run at St Catherine's, Health Hub Sharples, Ecclestone Pool and Burnden Park Fitness Academy.
Is Crown Street open to everyone?
No. Crown Street lessons are residents only. Public swimming lessons run at our Bolton and Chorley venues.
I live at Deansgate Square. Can I use Crown Street?
Each residential pool is limited to residents of that development. Deansgate Square residents should enquire for Deansgate Square The Towers.
Still have a question?
Tell us who the lessons are for and your preferred pool or area. We will help you find the right class.