Earley Swim School

Welcome to Earley Swim School

At Earley Swim School, our vision is simple:

To inspire everyone – from toddlers to adults – to enjoy the water, stay safe, and learn swim skills with confidence, in a supportive and welcoming environment.

Since 2012, we’ve taught thousands of swimmers across Reading and Berkshire – and we are proud to say we’ve never failed anyone. Many of our swimmers stay with us for years, moving confidently from beginner Stages to competitive levels.

Join us at Earley Swim School – the highest-rated swim school in Reading, Berkshire – where Safety, Skills, Confidence and Smiles come first!

Crash Courses Summer 2026

We are now taking bookings for our Summer Crash Courses!

Our popular Crash Courses run during the Easter and Summer school holidays (April, July and August). As the only local swim school offering 40-minute lessons over 5 consecutive days, we provide swimmers with the perfect opportunity to build confidence, improve technique, and make outstanding progress in a short period of time. Suitable for children and adults of all abilities, from complete beginners to advanced swimmers.

Contact Mari on WhatsApp 07960536050 for further info and reservations.

Why Swim with Us?

★★★★★ 5-star rating based on 160 reviews on Google and Facebook.

We’re passionate about helping every swimmer become safe, confident and strong in the water. Here’s what makes us different…

Fast Progress, Lots of Fun
With our proven teaching method, you and your child will progress fast while enjoying every lesson.
Lessons for Every Age and Ability
Our lessons are for the whole family—from 2 years old to adults, from complete beginners to advanced swimmers and stamina sessions. We are also proud to offer one of the largest Ladies Only swimming programmes, welcoming Ladies of all ages and abilities.
Flexible and Family-Friendly
Lessons available 6 days a week (closed Sunday).
Easy to move between classes.
Siblings can swim at the same time.
Highly Qualified Teachers
All our teachers are Swim England Level 2 qualified, hold a valid National Rescue Award, and are fully DBS checked. On top of this, they complete ongoing in-house training with us to deliver our proven teaching method with confidence.
For our Beginners and Stage 2 swimmers, teachers deliver lessons in the water alongside the swim assistants. This close support ensures children feel safe, receive hands-on guidance, and make faster progress right from the start.
Skilled Swim Assistants
Our swim assistants are more than just helpers – many come from strong competitive swimming backgrounds and bring their passion and experience into every lesson. Working side-by-side with teachers in the water, they help maintain a close 1:3 ratio in beginner classes, ensuring faster progress, more support, and a safe, encouraging environment.
Teacher and Swimming Assistant in the Water
Our Beginner and Stage 2 classes are taught by both a qualified swimming teacher and a swimming assistant in the water, providing an excellent supervision ratio of approximately 1 Teacher for every 3 swimmers or less.
Head Teacher and Poolside Coach
Every session is overseen by a Head Teacher or Swim England Level 2 Coach on poolside. This guarantees that lessons are delivered to the highest standards, teachers and assistants are always supported, and communication with parents is prompt and professional.
Swim England Swim School Accredited
We are proudly affiliated with Swim England, the largest governing body for swimming in England. We follow the official Swim England Learn to Swim Pathway and maintain the highest teaching standards.
Small Classes and More Individual Attention
We keep our classes small, with a maximum of 5 swimmers in beginner classes and 6 swimmers in all other classes, allowing every swimmer to receive plenty of individual coaching and support.
Regular Assessments
Every 6 weeks, swimmers are assessed. Parents receive a clear progress report and certificate of achievement.
Live Progress Tracking
Parents can follow every Stage skill their child achieves through our online Parent Portal, making it easy to see their progress throughout the term.

Pathway to Competitive Swimming
Our swimmers follow the official Swim England Learn to Swim Pathway, earning National recognised certificates and badges at every stage:
Stages 1 to 7: covering water confidence and proficiency in all four strokes.
Stages 8 to 10 – Stamina & Competitive Swimming focusing on advanced technique, endurance, speed and race skills. Led by Swim England Level 2 Coaches, these sessions help prepare swimmers for competitive swimming and swimming races.
Alongside stage awards, swimmers can also achieve Distance Awards and the prestigious Swim England Bronze, Silver, and Gold Challenge Awards, celebrating their progress and motivating them to reach new goals.
Children and Adults Move Up Quickly
We don’t make our swimmers wait until the end of the term. As soon as a swimmer has achieved the required skills and is swimming confidently, we move them into the next stage, helping them continue progressing at the right pace.
FREE Distance Awards Every Term
Every swimmer is assessed for distance each term and receives a FREE Distance Award Certificate to celebrate their achievements.
Warm Indoor Pool
Our indoor pool is maintained at approximately 30°C, providing a warm and comfortable environment all year round.
Parents Welcome on Poolside
We believe in transparency and peace of mind. That’s why parents are always welcome to watch every lesson from poolside – so you can see for yourself the high-quality teaching, care, and support your child is receiving.
FREE On-Site Parking
Free parking is available for every lesson, with clear parking instructions provided before your first visit.
Affordable Excellence
Swimming should be for everyone. With no admission fees and no hidden costs, our lessons are competitively priced and we offer flexible payment options with convenient installments – always maintaining top-quality teaching at competitive prices.
Outstanding Customer Service
We are very proud of the care and support we give our families. At Earley Swim School, you are never just a number – you’ll always have a direct link to us for questions, feedback, and support whenever you need it.
Over 14 Years of Helping Swimmers Succeed
Since 2012, we’ve helped thousands of children and adults become safe, confident swimmers in a friendly, supportive and professional environment.
Highest-Rated Swim School in Reading
Families trust us – that’s why we are the highest-rated swim school on Google in Reading and Berkshire, backed by the largest number of 5-star reviews from happy swimmers and parents.

Our Lessons

Here’s a summary of the lessons we offer. Via our booking portal you can view availability and make bookings for all our classes, except the holiday Crash Courses. To check availability and book Crash Course places, please contact Mari by phone/WhatApp at 07960536050.

Parent and Toddler Classes (2 to 3½ years)

Our Parent and Toddler sessions are designed for children aged 2 to 3½ years. With songs, games, and guided movement, these fun and supportive classes help little ones build water confidence while bonding with their parent. A perfect first step before independent swimming.

Class time: Saturdays 3:50pm
Duration 30 minutes
Cost per class: £15

Toddler Classes (3½ to 4 years)

Our toddler sessions are designed to build water confidence and early swimming skills through fun, structured activities. With a focus on independence, floating, kicking, and safe water habits, these classes gently prepare young swimmers for Stage 1 of our Learn to Swim program.

Class times:
– Mondays 4:45pm
– Tuesdays 6:15pm
– Saturdays 1:45pm
Duration: 30 minutes
Cost per class: £12.50

Children’s Swimming Lessons

Our children’s lessons follow the Swim England Learn to Swim pathway, progressing from Stage 1 to Stage 10. Small group sizes, taught by experienced teachers. Focused on building strong technical confidence and a lifelong love for swimming. Parents are welcome to watch lessons poolside and see their child’s progress firsthand. Whether your child is a complete beginner or working towards advanced skills, we’ll guide them every step of the way!

Class times:
– Mondays 4:45pm / 5:15pm / 5:45pm / 6:15pm
– Tuesdays 4:45pm / 5:15pm / 5:45pm / 6:15pm
– Wednesdays 4:45pm / 5:15pm / 5:45pm / 6:15pm
– Thursdays 6:30pm / 7:00pm
– Fridays 4:45pm / 5:15pm / 5:45pm
– Saturdays 1:15pm / 1:45pm / 2:15pm
Duration: 30 minutes
Cost per class: £12.50

Stamina & Competitive Sessions (Stage 7–10)

These sessions are designed for swimmers who have completed the early stages and are ready to train at a more competitive level. Ideal for children in Stages 7–10, they focus on advanced technique, building endurance and speed. Swimmers develop essential race skills, including starts, turns, and swimming strategies used in galas and competitions. A great stepping stone for those interested in competitive swimming, preparing for races, or developing high-performance swimming skills. Perfect for confident swimmers who are ready to take their training to the next level in a supportive and structured environment.

Class times:
– Mondays 6:45pm
– Tuesdays 6:45pm
– Wednesdays 6:15pm / 6:45pm
Duration: 45 minutes
Cost per class: £15

Ladies-Only Swimming Classes

Our ladies-only sessions provide a calm, welcoming, and completely private environment for women of all ages and abilities. Taught exclusively by female instructors, with no spectators, no viewing windows, and closed doors, ensuring maximum privacy and comfort. During lesson times, only ladies are present in the facility, creating a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere where you can learn, build confidence, improve fitness, and develop your swimming skills at your own pace.

Class times:
– Mondays 7:30pm / 8:10pm
Duration: 40 minutes
Cost per class: £15

– Thursdays 7:30pm
– Saturdays 2:45pm / 3:15pm
Duration: 30 minutes
Cost per class: £12.50

Adults Swimming Lessons

It’s never too late to learn to swim or improve your technique! Our adult lessons are designed for all abilities, from complete beginners to those looking to refine their strokes. Small group sizes with personalised attention. Teachers in the water to offer guidance and reassurance when needed. Focus on building confidence, learning technique, and improving overall fitness. Whether you’re overcoming a fear of water or aiming to improving your fitness, we’ll help you reach your goals at your own pace.

Class times:
– Tuesdays 7:30pm
Duration: 40 minutes
Cost per class: £15

– Wednesdays 7:30pm / 8:00pm
– Thursdays 8:00pm
Duration: 30 minutes
Cost per class: £12.50

Crash Courses

Private Lessons

Private swimming lessons for children and adults who prefer individual attention or wish to progress faster. Ideal for beginners, nervous swimmers, technique improvement, stamina training, or preparing for holidays. Ladies-only private lessons with female instructors are also available.

We offer 1:1 Private Lessons or 1:2 Private Lessons for both children and adults.
Please contact Mari at or via phone/WhatsApp 07960536050 to discuss availability.

BOOK A LESSON NOW!

FAQ

Because we teach differently. Our Beginner Classes and Stage 2 classes are taught by both a qualified swimming teacher and a swimming assistant in the water. Our small class sizes (5 swimmers for beginner classes and 6 swimmers for more advanced classes), allow all swimmers to receive more individual attention and support, build confidence quickly, develop excellent technique and make outstanding progress.

Weekly Lessons
Our weekly lessons run during school term time and follow the school calendar. We have 3 terms each year – Spring, Summer and Autumn. Each term usually includes 11–14 lessons.

Holiday Crash Courses
During the Easter and Summer holidays we also offer intensive Crash Courses for both children and adults. Each course takes place over 5 consecutive days with a 40-minute lesson each day and are suitable for beginners through to advanced swimmers. These intensive courses help swimmers make excellent progress in a short period of time.

You can book lessons directly via our portal at https://earleyswimschool-bookings.swimphony.io/.
If you’d like help choosing the right class, please contact Mari at or via phone/WhatsApp 07960536050.

Children’s 30-minute Lessons – £12.50 per lesson.
Children’s 45-minute Stamina Classes – £15 per lesson.

Lessons are booked by school term (typically 11–14 lessons). Rather than paying the full term fee at once, the total is split into 3 smaller upfront instalments, each covering a block of 4–5 lessons.

There are NO monthly subscriptions, NO yearly memberships, NO payments during school holidays. You simply pay for the lessons in your term, spread into smaller instalments.

All bookings are completed via our portal at https://earleyswimschool-bookings.swimphony.io/ using a secure debit or credit card.

All classes are 30 minutes long, except for Children’s Stamina Classes which last 45 minutes.

All our teachers are Swim England Level 2 qualified and have many years of teaching experience. Our team also continues its professional development through regular in-house training.

Yes. We strongly believe beginners learn best with both the teacher and swimming assistant in the water. Children feel safer, become more confident and progress much faster.

Absolutely. We are proud to be a Swim England Affiliated Swim School since many years and we follow the official Learn to Swim Programme from complete beginners through to advanced swimmers.

Yes. Swimmers work through all the official Swim England Stages. At the end of each stage, children can purchase their official Swim England Certificate and Badge, with prices starting from just £4.

Water safety is one of the most important parts of our programme.
Throughout the year, children learn all the essential water safety skills recommended by Swim England, including:

Floating safely on their back
Treading water
Safe entries and exits
Swimming in clothing (where appropriate)
What to do if they fall into water
How to call for help
How to help someone safely without putting themselves in danger
Understanding the dangers of rivers, lakes, canals and the sea

Every term we also run a dedicated Water Safety and Prevention Week, giving swimmers additional practical water safety training.

We use an excellent electronic assessment system that records every skill achieved by each swimmer throughout the term. Parents can easily monitor their child’s progress through the Parent Portal. Every term we also assess each swimmer’s distance achievements, and every child receives a FREE Distance Award Certificate.

Unlike many swim schools, we don’t wait until the end of the term. As soon as a swimmer has achieved the required skills and is swimming confidently, we move them into the next class, helping them continue progressing at the right pace.

You will need to bring a swimsuit, towel and swim hat. Goggles are optional if needed. We supply learning equipment, such as flotation aids.
If your child is not fully potty trained, they must wear a double swim nappy (a disposable swim nappy underneath a reusable neoprene swim nappy).

Absolutely. Parents are welcome to watch from poolside. We believe it’s important that families can enjoy watching their child’s progress and feel confident about the quality of our lessons.

Absolutely. We have ongoing enrollment throughout the year. You simply pay for the remaining lessons from the date you join, so you never pay for lessons you’ve missed.

Yes! You’re very welcome to book a trial lesson. To reserve your place, simply complete the online booking and pay the first installment for the current lesson block. If you decide not to continue after your first lesson, simply let us know within 24 hours, and we’ll refund your payment.

Yes. We offer 1:1 Private Lessons or 1:2 Private Lessons for both children and adults.
Please contact Mari at or via phone/WhatsApp 07960536050 to discuss availability.

Absolutely! Teaching complete beginners is one of our greatest strengths. Whether you’ve never been in deep water or simply lack confidence, we’ll support you every step of the way in a relaxed and friendly environment. We’re proud to have helped hundreds of adults learn to swim and become confident swimmers.

Yes. Our indoor pool is maintained at approximately 30°C, providing a warm and comfortable environment throughout the year.

Yes. Free parking is available on site. The correct parking area depends on your lesson day and time, and full instructions are sent before your first lesson.

Testimonials

Earley swimming school is best for all age groups, located in a prime location. Mari and all supporting teachers are very good and professional swim instructors. It was a wonderful learning experience. My 10 year old son has reached to stage 4 while 7 year old daughter has reached stage 3 in just about 6 months. It’s wonderful to see them swimming. Thanks Mari for all your efforts and professional coaching.
Amit Nikumbh
Mari and her team are brilliant teachers-they are very patient and focus on excellent technique. Both of my daughters have made amazing progress and have really gained in confidence. They look forward to their lessons each week and can’t wait to get in the water!
Hanna Thomas
Mari is the most amazing swimming teacher! In only 6 months she took me from barely being able to swim front crawl, to being able to swim 2km in my Half Ironman triathlon! All this training was made to be so fun and effective, through Mari’s engaging and expert tuition! I cannot recommend Mari and the Earley Swim School enough! Thank you so much!
Theo Stafford