Puddle Ducks Dorset, a local swim school, will begin classes in the coming weeks at its latest venue, offering more early-years swimming lessons in the Bournemouth area at Moordown St John’s Primary School.
Jane Bozic, owner of Puddle Ducks Dorset, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to be opening a new pool this spring.
“Our team works incredibly hard to create a welcoming and supportive environment, and this next step reflects both the success of our lessons and the wonderful families who join us each week.
Puddle Ducks Dorset to host new swimming lessons at Moordown St John’s Primary School (Image: TMC)
“Being able to extend our programme means even more children can begin learning this vital life skill from an early age.”
The new pool will allow Puddle Ducks Dorset to welcome additional families into its Baby & Pre-school programme in a warm, purpose-built environment.
Puddle Ducks Dorset currently teaches more than 800 children each week, helping babies and young children build water confidence, learn essential swimming skills, and enjoy a positive introduction to swimming.
The expansion comes amid concerns about swimming proficiency among older children.
According to Swim England’s Active Lives Children and Young People Survey from 2024, just 70 per cent of Year 7 pupils can swim 25 metres competently.
The data highlights the need for early-years swimming education to ensure children develop strong confidence and safety skills in the water before reaching secondary school age.
Mrs Bozic said: “This research really reinforces why early swimming is so important.
“Swimming is a vital life skill, and we love helping children grow in confidence from their very first splash through to independent swimming.
“Knowing our growth allows more families to access lessons is something we’re incredibly proud of.”
Puddle Ducks Dorset to host new swimming lessons at Moordown St John’s Primary School (Image: TMC)
All Puddle Ducks teachers are STA qualified and trained in the Puddle Ducks approach, which focuses on gentle, child-led learning.
Lessons are designed to support each child’s natural development, creating a nurturing environment for swimmers of all abilities.
More information about Puddle Ducks classes in Dorset is available at the Puddle Ducks website.