Swimming classes are offered primarily in the following categories, although special requests for all ages may be accommodated for, based on availability. The primary focus to allow the child to be water safe, with different ages and levels of water readiness considered. The NSRI reports that 2000 people drown annually in SA - 600 of whom are children, with many more are disabled by a non-fatal drowning incident.

A child is never 'safe' around water and should always be under parental supervision. Drowning is the third leading cause of unintentional injury death worldwide. The highest drowning rate is in the age group 1-4 years, followed by 5-9 year olds. -- World Health Organisation (WHO)

Babies (6+ months)

The program is structured by Rubida Swimming School using various techniques that are well known in SA as well as the latest from abroad. A newborn baby has already spent nine months in a fluid environment within the womb which is why most babies take to the water so easily. Skin to skin and eye contact is essential for strengthening the bond between parent/guardian and baby. Classes are presented in a group with the babies parent/guardian being the comforter and "teacher". The aim of this program is to achieve parental bonding, social interaction, improved fine and gross motor skills, better co-ordination and basic swimming skills. The instructor will use swim aids as necessary, subject to their age, physical and emotional status. The baby program incorporates games, play and various swim techniques in a peaceful, loving environment.

Toddlers (12 - 36 months)

The toddler years are a time of great cognitive, emotional and social development.

These lessons provide the toddler with the necessary requirements to become confident in the water. To help themselves if in trouble and to provide them with the necessary skills and adaptations to progress into the beginner phase with the introduction of breath control. This objective is obtained by repetitive format, building self-esteem and water awareness. Toddlers lack the strength, coordination and motor skills to swim on the surface of the water until 30 - 36 months of age.

Beginners (36+ months)

The basic class format remains the same as with the Toddlers with necessary changes depending on the swimmer's age, co-ordination, physical and emotional status. Buoyancy equipment is used where necessary to assist swimmers and to build their confidence. Kicking drills and arm actions for the various swimming strokes are introduced.

Stroke technique

Stroke Technique is taught once the swimmers are competent in the water. All strokes are introduced allowing the swimmer to develop their correct breathing patterns as well as arm and leg actions. Once this has been achieved the swimmer will progress to the different stroke drills phase where swimmers are taught their starts and turns enabling them to be "gala" ready. Once competent in the various strokes, starts, turns and drills, and able to swim 25m per stroke, the swimmers are then referred to a swimming coach to further develop stroke technique.