Frequently asked Questions.
Choosing a swim school for your child can be nerve racking and confusing. Here are a number of answers to questions that we are regularly asked.
Q. How do I choose the right swim school?
A. Swim schools have different philosophies and teaching methods. We recommend visiting the swim school prior to enrolment to collect information regarding the aquatic program, staff qualifications and to view classes in action.
Swim schools should be willing to answer any questions you may have. Parents should feel comfortable with all aspects of the learning to swim program in which their child participates. In addition to many other benefits, all elements of the program should have an 'aquatic purpose'. As a general rule, the syllabus should be a fun and safe learning experience and your child should also be allowed to progress at their own pace.
Q. At what times are lessons held at Olympus?
A. Lessons takes place throughout the day from 0900 hours on Saturdays only until 1600 (last lesson). Each lesson lasts for 30 minutes
Q. Why can't I choose at what time my child can swim?
A. Existing pupils, especially those with siblings have priority when it comes to lesson times. However, occasionally when pupils move up a level, this will often involve a change of swim time and this may not necessarily be at or close to the last lesson time.
We will always endeavour to accommodate lesson time preferences whenever possible. For new or waiting list swimmers demand is very high and lesson times are usually offered on an 'as available' basis.
Q. How can I assess if a school is well run?
A. Take note of how well behaviour is maintained - children shouldn't be splashing or dunking each other or running around the pool. Ideally a school should have published rules for admission or a swim charter. Once you've found a good class that you think your child will enjoy, you may be taken aback to find them crying and clinging to you when it comes time to hop in the pool.
Understand that tears and anxiety are very common at the beginning of swim lessons. What's important is how quickly your child gets over it. First, ask the instructor to help you understand exactly what's causing your child's trepidation and go from there. The vast majority of children go on to become comfortable with swimming lessons and being in the water.
Q. How can I recognise good tuition?
A. Teachers should clearly demonstrate what they are asking the children to do and explain why they are doing it that way. They should know what children are capable of at various ages but allow each child to master new skills at his/her own rate. Teachers should assess the child’s skill level and ask them to do only the things that they're able to - a good program builds on children's successes. Make sure that the teacher's tone is always supportive and positive too.
Q. What is the right proportion of 'downtime vs. swim time'?
A. Notice how much time each child has to wait for a turn with the instructor. Even in group classes, there should be more "doing" than waiting. While the teacher is spending individual instruction time with one child, the others should be busily (and safely) using the skills they've just learned
Q. How are children organised for tuition?
A. Find out how children are placed in the various class levels (there should be a "skill set" associated with advancement into each new level) and exactly what will be expected of your child in the level you're planning to enrol him/her in.
Children should be grouped with others in their age range and skill level. If this is your child's first class, for instance, he should be grouped with other beginners who are roughly the same age.