Can I do drop-in classes? Can I start lessons at any point in the term?

We offer a pre-booked individual paid trial lesson and then if you would like to carry on your swimming adventure with us, we request that lessons are booked for the half term ahead and paid for in advance. Classes are 30 minutes long, and run term time only. You will be booked into a lesson that is age appropriate for your child. Because our approach to swimming is gentle and child-led, it is possible to join at any point in the year, and we as facilitators will adapt the experiences to you and your child.

 

What do classes look like?

Classes at the Bottisham Village College Swimming Pool (BVC) will have one teacher and possibly an assistant to help facilitate the experience in the pool. There can be up to three classes running at once with up to 4 children in each class on a Thursday and up to 6 on a Saturday. The teacher is often in the pool with lower stages, but poolside for higher stages to be able to give visual support to the stroke development. Classes consist of a warm up activity, some stroke development, work on a skill and then an ending activity. Lessons are fun and enjoyable.

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What are your parent and child classes like? 

We will teach you holds that will aid your child in moving towards independent swimming. We will centre our lessons around movements, actions, songs and rhymes. We will invite you to do dips, jumps and baby dives all following the ques of your baby, we will never encourage forced and extended submersions. Remember your baby loves repetition and will want to do things over and over, this is how they learn. If you wish to find out more about the Birthlight approach, please follow this link to their website: https://birthlight.com 

 

What facilities are available?

BVC offers large separate male / female communal changing rooms with WCs and showers. There are some private changing cubicles. BVC also has a spectator area for parents to sit and watch the lessons. There are accessible toilets. 

 

What does my child need to bring?

• A swimming costume

• Goggles

• Towel 

• Something easy to change into after

• A drink and/or snack for after the class

 

What does my baby need to wear? 

You will need to bring with you: 

• Swim nappies. Please remember that until your baby is reliably potty trained they must wear properly fitting swim nappies. We would also advise wearing a neoprene nappy over the top of the disposable nappy to ensure it is secure 

• An additional sleeved costume over the top of the nappy can often help to regulate temperature and ensure they remain warm in the stages where they are not as active

• Your swimming kit (adult/parent/carer)

• A hooded towel for when they get out of the pool, and a towel for yourself. Some parents bring a dressing gown to wrap up in while they change their baby 

• A hat or hood that covers your child's ears for when they leave the building 

• A drink and/or snack for after the class for your baby and you 

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Is there a lost property?

The site has a lost property box in one of the front offices, they will happily allow you to look through it if you feel you have left something behind. Bubble and bounce staff do not get the chance to check the changing rooms during or after classes, but if goggles are left by the pool following your lesson then we will try to hold onto these for you.

 

When should I arrive at my lesson?

We advise that you arrive 10-15 minutes before your booked time. We also advise that you arrive pool ready under your clothing. This will allow you to easily be ready for class. We also ask that shoes are removed and not worn around the pool and showers are taken before entering the pool.

 

Can family members watch? Can we take photographs?

Yes you can bring others to watch from the seating area, children are always very happy to show off their new skills. We ask that those spectating do not take photos as we can not be sure that other children who have not given consent are clear of the pictures. It is also a site policy to not allow photographs and you will see signs around the seating area. 

 

What should I do if I cannot attend a lesson? Last minute illness for example

We understand that life is busy! Sometimes you will be unable to attend your lesson. Please endeavour to send us an email or drop us a message on Facebook. We regretfully cannot refund missed pre-booked lessons but if you miss a trial session, we will try to reschedule. A credit will be given if a lesson is cancelled by Bubble and Bounce.  

 

Is there parking?

Yes there is parking available at BVC. If you follow the sign from the road which states “heated pool”, you are able to park in any of the designated parking spaces here and then walk over to the sports centre. There is also free parking on site at King's Hedges Learner Pool.

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When can my child start swimming in an independent class?

Classes are suitable for preschool age children who are confident in parting with their parents, it often helps if these children have grown in independence during our parent and child sessions, but each child can be considered if you feel they are ready for independent classes. Those who are 4 and above, and attending school are definitely ready for independent classes.

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When can I start swimming with my baby? 

Classes suitable for babies from 12 weeks to children of 4 years. All babies and children are placed in age appropriate groups. In regards to vaccinations, the NHS guidelines state that there is no risk to babies and you may join classes at any time. If you have any medical concerns, please contact your health visitor or doctor first, but please do let us know. Additionally if your baby is premature, also check with your health practitioner first. As soon as they’re ready, we’re ready! 

https://www.nhs.uk/common-health-questions/childrens-health/can-my-baby-go-swimming-before -or-after-vaccinations/ 

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I am a non-swimmer, can my baby attend your classes? 

Yes, the pool is shallow and warm. We are inclusive and feel that finding ways for parents to gain confidence in the pool is fundamental for encouraging confidence in our young swimmers - you are your child’s teacher. Please let us know when booking and we can help to adapt and facilitate your time in the pool with us. 

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How long should I leave between feeding my baby and swimming? 

It is often difficult to organise activities for exactly the right time of day especially as routines can change day to day. We are happy for you to feed your young baby before or even during a class. For babies on solids it is preferable to leave some time before coming to class. Many babies enjoy a feed or snack after their swim. Tired babies will not get the most from their swim so try to give them a nap beforehand or do not hesitate to leave the pool if your baby has had enough.

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