Business Details
10 Years
experience
Award-Winning Swimming Lessons for Children in Bolton
At Splash Stars, we revolutionise the way children learn to swim through our innovative, child-centred approach. Established in 2016, our programme focuses on building water confidence and independence from the very first lesson, ensuring children develop correct techniques and vital life-saving skills. Our team of highly trained instructors undergoes rigorous recruitment and continuous professional development, including 45 hours of co-teaching, STA qualifications, and termly assessments. We collaborate with the STA to align our bespoke curriculum with the International Learn to Swim Pathway, enabling children to achieve recognised certifications.With small class sizes and a no-aid policy, we prioritise natural progression, helping children master strokes and self-rescue techniques without reliance on flotation devices. Recognised with awards such as the Manchester Prestige Award for Children's Swimming Lessons Provider of the Year, we serve families across the North West, offering tailored sessions for children aged 0 - 11, including those with additional needs. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our structured progression system, proven track record of customer satisfaction, and dedication to fostering a lifelong love of swimming.
Services
Baby Swimming Lessons
Toddler Water Confidence
Children's Stroke Development
Special Needs Swimming
Underwater Photography Sessions
Details
- Year established: 2016
Highlights and features
- Our instructors complete 45+ hours of co-teaching and STA qualifications.
- We align lessons with the International Learn to Swim Pathway for structured progression.
- Small class sizes ensure individualised attention and rapid skill development.
- Proven success in building water confidence without reliance on flotation devices.
- Award-winning programme with Bolton Council approval and multiple industry accolades.
Associations and certifications
- STA Approved
- RLSS
What people say
Fantastic instructors
Confidence has grown
Excellent value
Structured programme
Non-forceful approach
Services
Baby Swimming Lessons
Our Twinkle Stars programme introduces babies aged 07 months to water through gentle submersion and floating exercises. Classes focus on bonding, relaxation, and early water confidence, using signals and supported swims to build foundational skills. Parents learn techniques to practice at home, ensuring consistent progress and comfort in the water.
Toddler Water Confidence
Shooting Stars classes for 816-month-olds develop independence through playful, child-led activities. We nurture confidence in submersion, floating, and surface swimming while maintaining a fun, engaging environment. Lessons include key skills like breath control and safe water entry, preparing toddlers for structured swimming progression.
Children's Stroke Development
StarAcademy levels 15 teach children aged 4+ correct strokes (front crawl, breaststroke, backstroke, butterfly) and lifesaving skills. With a 6:1 instructor ratio, sessions focus on stamina, alignment, and competitive techniques while maintaining a non-forceful, child-centred approach aligned with STA standards.
Special Needs Swimming
Tailored lessons for children with disabilities like autism, cerebral palsy, and sensory impairments. Our STA-certified instructors use minimal flotation aids and gentle methods to build confidence, mobility, and water safety. Classes incorporate parent participation and individualised progression to suit diverse physical and developmental needs.
Underwater Photography
Professional underwater photo sessions for children who've completed 6+ weeks of lessons. Sessions include family participation guidance, real-time HD monitoring, and practice tips to ensure calm, cooperative subjects. Images capture developmental milestones in a unique, artistic format while reinforcing water confidence.
People
Nichole
Creative and Technical Director
Nichole founded Splash Stars in 2016 after a career in the swimming industry and energy sector. She developed the revolutionary programme, combining STA standards with child development expertise. With 400+ customers and multiple awards, she leads instructor training and curriculum development.
Questions
What age groups do you cater for?
We offer lessons for children from 8 weeks to 11 years old, with classes tailored to specific age ranges and ability levels.
Do you use flotation devices?
No, we teach without armbands or disks to develop natural confidence and correct swimming techniques from the start.
Can children with disabilities join lessons?
Yes, we provide specially adapted sessions for various conditions with trained instructors and minimal flotation aids.
What happens if we miss a lesson?
We offer free catch-up lessons for missed sessions due to illness or holidays, ensuring continuity of learning.
How do you ensure lesson quality?
Instructors complete 45+ hours of co-teaching, STA qualifications, and termly assessments to maintain our high standards.
Do you offer private swimming lessons?
Yes, we provide one-to-one sessions for children aged 2+ with customised goals and flexible booking options.
