What to expect
Swimming lessons at Wrenford are designed for all ages and abilities. Whether your child is new to the water or ready to master advanced strokes, our Swim for Life program builds water safety, confidence and fitness. Classes are led by certified instructors in small groups to ensure every swimmer gets the attention they need.
Benefits
- Learn essential water safety and drowning prevention skills.
- Build strength, coordination and endurance.
- Boost confidence and make new friends in a supportive setting.
- Enjoy a low-impact workout suitable for all ages.
Registration and scheduling
Registration opens on set dates each season. You can register online through Wrenford 311, in person at any aquatic centre, or by phone. Classes typically run for five to eight sessions.
- Fall registration opens the last Monday of August.
- Winter registration opens the first Monday of December.
- Spring and summer registration opens the first Monday of March.
Check the Programs schedule for exact dates, times and available locations.
Lesson levels
Our instructors follow the Lifesaving Society Swim for Life curriculum. Use our online skills quiz to find the right level for your swimmer.
- Preschool 1–5: For children aged 3 to 5. Focuses on water acclimation, breath control and basic kicking.
- Swimmer 1–6: For ages 6 to 17. Covers safe entries, floating, front and back crawl, breaststroke, butterfly and survival skills. Swimmer 5 and 6 prepare for lifeguard certification.
- Youth 1–3: For ages 12 to 17. Flexible classes focused on stroke refinement, distance swimming and personal fitness goals.
- Stroke Skills: Smaller classes for swimmers who need extra practice to pass specific stroke requirements.
Where to find lessons
Lessons are held at our indoor aquatic facilities year-round:
- Tamsin Valley Leisure Centre (400 Benchlands Drive)
- Northgate Aquatic Centre (910 Northgate Boulevard)
Outdoor lessons are available at Kingfisher Outdoor Pool from late June to Labour Day, weather permitting.
What to bring and wear
Please arrive ready to swim. Your swimmer needs a well-fitting swimsuit, a towel and a water bottle. Goggles are optional. All other equipment is provided. For safety, children under 8 must be accompanied by a responsible person aged 14 or older in the change rooms and pool deck.
Accessibility and support
Wrenford is committed to inclusive recreation. If your swimmer requires a support staff member or aide, they are welcome in the water with you. Our aquatic centres are fully accessible and comply with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). Accessible change rooms and pool lifts are available at both indoor facilities.
Fees
Lessons are priced per course. A standard course includes five to eight classes.
- Child and youth lessons: $55.00 per course
- Private lessons: $30.00 per 30-minute session
Fee assistance is available through our Recreation fee assistance program.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know which level is right?
Registration does not require proof of previous levels. If you are unsure, book a free swim assessment by calling the aquatic centre or dropping in during a public swim.
Can my swimmer move to a different level mid-course?
Yes. If a swimmer is struggling or excelling, instructors can transfer them to a more suitable class when space allows.
What happens if my swimmer misses a class?
Classes are not made up, but you may transfer your child to another day or time with instructor approval.
Do instructors provide certification?
Instructors hold Bronze Cross or higher certification and are qualified to teach the Swim for Life program. Lifesaving Society certification ribbons are awarded at the end of each level.
For more information, contact Recreation Programs Coordinator Caroline Dubé at [email protected] or call the Tamsin Valley Leisure Centre at 519-555-0120.