Ace Learn to Swim frequently asked questions
General ace information
Why should my child learn to swim?
Swimming is a life-saving skill, especially important in New Zealand’s water-rich environment. It promotes brain development, builds movement skills for future activities, and helps develop the vestibular system crucial for balance in sports.
What is the length, depth and temperature of your pool?
Our Casey Ave Pool is 10m long, 0.9m deep, and heated to between 32.5°C and 33.5°C for maximum comfort.
Your pool is only 10m long, is this long enough for my child?
Yes. Our shorter pool allows instructors to provide immediate feedback and correct technique, avoiding the formation of bad habits.
Is your pool chlorinated?
Yes. Our pool uses a monitored chlorination system and is tested regularly to meet public health standards.
How do I enrol my child for swimming lessons?
If you are interested in enrolling your child for swimming lessons then complete an enrollment form and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can with availability.
How do I book my child for the next term?
At the end of each term, existing Ace students are asked if they will be returning. If we do not receive a reply, you will automatically be re-enrolled on the same day and time for the following term.
If you DO NOT wish to re-enrol, we ask that you kindly notify us by email or in our office as soon as possible.
To confirm your re-enrolment, your $40 deposit must be received within 7 days of receiving the booking confirmation email.
If you do not advise us of your withdrawal and do not turn up to the lessons you will be liable for full fees.
What size are your classes?
We have some of the smallest class sizes around and know our swimmers benefit hugely from having more opportunities for attention from the Instructor.
Babies maximum 8 per class
Pre-school maximum 2 per class
School age maximum 4 per class
When should my child stop swimming lessons?
Water Safety NZ recommends all New Zealanders should swim 200 meters competently. Until then, regular lessons and practice are essential to retain skills and build confidence.
General lesson information
How many lessons are there in a term?
Our terms coincide with the primary school terms. The number of lessons per term therefore depends on the length of the primary school terms. If your lesson falls on a public holiday weekend we will not be open and your fees will account for this.
How long are your classes?
Baby classes are 30 minutes
Pre-school classes are 20 minutes
School age classes are 30 minutes
Will my child have the same instructor?
We try our very best to ensure your child has the same teacher each week. However, sickness, university timetable changes, exams and important events are out of our control. If there are any changes, we will communicate this and work out the best option.
All of our staff are extremely capable, keep records and communicate well with each other and we will do our best to ensure that your child's swimming progress is not disrupted by any change.
What happens if my child is sick during the term?
If a make-up lesson is needed for sickness, we do our best to fit this in if there is room in other classes of the same level. You must notify us of your absence prior to your scheduled lesson. The make up lesson if available must be used in the same term as the absence, with no more than 2 make up lessons per term.
What happens if we go on holiday during the term?
Make-up lessons are only available for sickness with notice.
How do I pay?
Payment can be made online using internet banking or our customer portal app (surcharges may apply for portal payments). We also have eftpos and cash payment options in our swim school office. We do not accept Credit Cards, Paywave or Cheques.
Can my child move up a level during the term?
Yes, if the instructor believes they’re ready. We’ll contact you to discuss available times in the next level.
What if my child is really unsure about swimming?
It’s completely normal for some children to feel nervous at their first lesson. Just let us know when you book. Our team is happy to offer tips and extra support. Some kids may have separation anxiety or be unsure of new places, but with time and gentle guidance, they settle in.
Our instructors are experienced and use fun activities like blowing bubbles, singing songs, and games to help children feel safe and enjoy the water. Please be patient as progress may take a few lessons, but most children grow confident and happy in the pool. Our office team is also here to help however we can.
How quickly will my child learn how to swim?
Every child learns at their own pace. Things like age, past water experience, and comfort in new settings all play a part.
Progress won’t always be steady. Some lessons will bring big leaps, others may feel slower. Be patient and enjoy the journey. With the right support, every child will learn to swim in time.
Can I watch my child during their lesson?
Yes, we have a designated viewing area. Please refrain from approaching the pool edge to avoid distracting the children.
Baby lessons
What age can my baby begin swimming lessons?
Babies can start as early as 3 months old. Early water exposure aids in muscle strengthening, brain development, and water safety skills.
Do I need to be in the water with my child?
Yes. A parent or caregiver must be in the water during baby classes.
What should my child wear for swimming lessons?
Girls: One-piece togs
Boys: Speedos or tight-fitting shorts
No baggy clothes as they create drag.
Infants must wear swim nappies (also available onsite).
Does my child need to wear goggles?
Not required for babies. As children begin swimming underwater and doing longer swims, goggles are recommended.
Does my child need a swim cap?
Babies do not need to wear caps as this can reduce confidence and be distracting for the child.
Pre-school lessons
Do I need to be in the water with my child?
Depends on which class the pre-school child is in. If the class is a Super Seahorse or PS1 (beginner pre-school), we recommend being prepared to join your child in the water as they build confidence.
What should my child wear for swimming lessons?
Girls: One-piece togs
Boys: Speedos or tight-fitting shorts
No baggy clothes as they create drag.
Untrained toddlers must wear swim nappies (also available onsite).
Does my child need to wear goggles?
Not required initially. As children begin swimming underwater and doing longer swims, goggles are recommended. Instructors will slowly introduce goggles if the child isn’t already comfortable wearing goggles.
Does my child need a swim cap?
Preferred. Swim caps are hygienic, reduce heat loss, and improve concentration. Fabric and silicone caps are available for purchase.
School age lessons
What age are School Age classes for?
These classes are designed for children 5 years and older.
What should my child wear for swimming lessons?
Girls: One-piece togs
Boys: Speedos or tight-fitting shorts
No baggy clothes as they create drag.
Does my child need to wear goggles?
Yes. Goggles can be purchased from the office. Our friendly office staff will help find some that fit best.
Does my child need a swim cap?
Preferred. Swim caps are hygienic, reduce heat loss, and improve concentration. Fabric and silicone caps are available for purchase.
Haven't answered your question?
Find the right class for your child
Compare your child’s skills with Ace’s class levels using our class estimate assessment. Please use this as a guide and get in touch with our team to confirm a class time.
P. 07 854 9668
E. info@acelearntoswim.co.nz
36 Casey Ave, Hamilton
Teaching Hamilton to swim
and survive since 1972
