Water Babies

Water Babies: swimming for babies and children from birth

Water Babies is a swimming school specialising in babies and children, with activities from birth to 14 years old. Its programme combines water safety, core aquatic skills and swimming strokes from the very first session, with the aim of developing confidence and life skills that go beyond the pool. The company presents itself as the world's largest baby swimming school, with over 80,000 pupils per year and an international franchise network.

Programme by age and teams

Classes are organised by age groups and skill levels. For the youngest, from 0 to 4 years, the programme is divided into stages: 0 to 1 year (Baby Swimming), 1 to 2 years (Toddler Swimming), 2 to 3 years (Toddler & preschool swimming) and 3 to 4 years (Early years swimming). Each stage focuses on developmental milestones, confidence and progressive aquatic skills.

From the age of 4, children join teams with themed names: Team Adventurer (beginners), Team Explorer (independent), Team Navigator (intermediate), Team Voyager (intermediate advanced), Team Champion (advanced) and Team Legend (advanced competitive). The programme is supported by the "Oceans of Imagination" narrative, with characters such as the Swimvincibles, who guide children on a personalised learning journey.

Methodology and resources for parents

Teaching is based on a proven, research-backed curriculum, delivered by highly qualified teachers. Classes are group-based, in warm pools, and aim to provide a positive, stress-free experience for parents and children. The company offers a digital skills tracker so parents can follow their child's progress. In addition, high-resolution underwater photography sessions are organised at selected locations.

Coverage and presence

Water Babies teaches classes in over 500 pools in the UK. The company operates through a network of over 52 franchises and around 600 teachers. Its head office is in Exeter, Devon, and the company is registered in England and Wales.

History and awards

Founded in 2002, Water Babies has taught more than half a million children to swim. In 2025 it received the Investors in People Platinum award. The company has also been recognised as the highest-ranking baby swimming school franchise and has won numerous national consumer awards. It also celebrates initiatives such as National Baby Swimming Week, which in 2025 marked its tenth anniversary.

Products and additional resources

The company has an online shop offering products such as baby and children's swimwear, bath and pool toys, swimming accessories and swim nappies. It also publishes a blog with tips, stories and resources on water safety, child development and inclusive swimming.

Location and contact

Winslade House, Winslade Park, Manor Drive, Clyst St. Mary, Exeter, Devon, EX5 1FY