Swim Patrol lessons for kids ages 8 and over Available in select locations across BC and Ontario, Canada
Swim Patrol is where kids ages 8 and over level up their abilities, building endurance, refining their strokes, and learning water safety skills.
40+ YEARS
helping kids feel confident in the pool
HIGHLY TRAINED INSTRUCTORS
in the water supporting advanced swimmers
ADVANCED SWIM PROGRESSION
building strength, technique, and water safety skills
Our advanced swim lessons for kids
Swimmer 7, 8 and 9 are our Swim Patrol levels and are the next step for kids who are ready to take on more independence in the water, with a focus on endurance, control, and safety skills.
Our highly trained instructors create a supportive and encouraging environment, where these advanced swim lessons can build on the strong foundation they’ve already developed.
Who swim patrol lessons are for
These swim lessons are a great fit for kids 8+ who have completed Swimmer 6 are ready to take on more structured challenges in the water.
They’re especially helpful if you’re looking for:
Classes for kids who are ready to build endurance through longer swims and timed distances
Advanced swim lessons that teach lifesaving sport skills and strokesA program with practical water safety skills, such as first aid assessment and response
Getting little ones ready for more advanced kids water safety classes
If your kid is still working toward these skills, you can explore our swim lessons for ages 5 and over. As they continue to progress, Swim Patrol also prepares them for the next step into our lifesaving Bronze programs.
What our swim patrol lessons teach
These kids swimming classes focus on helping your little one become a stronger swimmer and learn early lifesaving skills through guided instruction, one proud “I DID IT!” moment at a time.
In each lesson, they’ll be supported as they work on:
Building endurance through longer swims and structured practice
Refining stroke technique for front crawl, back crawl, and breaststroke
Strengthening deep water skills, including entries, treading water, and controlled movement
Learning lifesaving skills, like recognizing when someone needs help and practicing safe, guided rescue techniques
Developing stronger, more efficient kicks like the eggbeater and scissor kick to stay stable in the water
Gaining confidence handling more advanced situations, from swimming with control to responding calmly in different water scenarios
Swim Patrol Levels
WHY CHOOSE US
Pedalheads has been helping build confident swimmers since 1986, with small class sizes, caring instructors, and a clear progression that helps kids grow stronger in the water.
Trusted by families
With 40+ years of experience and over 1M programs taught since 1986.
Highly-trained instructors
Certified and experienced instructors guide swimmers through clear, hands-on support.
Advanced swim curriculum
Structured micro progression helps kids build endurance and take on more complex skills at their own pace.
Built for growing confidence
Each level gives your kid the space to try new challenges and feel proud of what they can do.
Google
Reviews 4.8
Our son had an amazing time at camp and learned so much - he is so proud of his new biking skills! We are so grateful for the extra attention.
— Happy Swim Parent, BC
Pedalheads helped my reluctant swimmer make excellent, rapid progress and learn to love swimming and feel confident in the water. So happy with this program!
— Happy Swim Parent, BC
Meet the Pedalheads Swim Instructors
Britt, Swim Instructor
"I chose to become a Pedalheads swim instructor because of how rewarding it is! Bonus: the pools are custom designed to make learning fun and engaging for kids - it's how they learn best!"
Meet the Pedalheads Swim Instructors
Olivia, Swim Instructor
"The environment at the pools is electric! I love helping new or tentative swimmers into the pool, and fine-tuning skills for our more experienced swimmers."
Meet the Pedalheads Swim Instructors
Dean, Swim Instructor
"I motivate my students by figuring out their interests and sense of humour. Building connections and trust is an important part of teaching."
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TAKE A PEEK AT OUR POOLS
FAQs
Is my kid ready for Swim Patrol?
+Your kid may be ready if they can:
• Swim longer distances on their front and back with steady control
• Tread water comfortably and stay balanced in deep water
• Jump into deep water and get themselves oriented without support
• Use stronger kicks like whip kick or eggbeater to stay afloat
• Swim with their face in the water and maintain consistent breathing
• Stay focused and engaged through longer, more structured swim sessions
What is Swim Patrol?
+Swim Patrol is a series of advanced swim lessons that build on strong swimming foundations. Kids continue developing their strokes while learning endurance, water safety, and early lifesaving skills through guided instruction.
What age is Swim Patrol for?
+Swim Patrol is designed for kids ages 8+ who feel comfortable in deep water and are ready for more structured swim challenges.
How long are Swim Patrol classes?
+Swim Patrol classes are 2 hours long, giving your kid plenty of time to practice, build endurance, and work through more advanced skills with guidance from their instructor.
What level should a 9-year-old be in swimming?
+It depends on how comfortable your kid is in the water and what skills they’ve already developed. Many 9-year-olds who can swim independently and handle deeper water are ready for Swim Patrol, but the best fit is always the level that feels like the right next step. Still unsure? Ask our team for a FREE level assessment.
Is Star Patrol the same as Bronze Star?
+Star Patrol is the final level within Swim Patrol and focuses on building endurance, refining strokes, and learning more advanced water safety skills. Bronze Star comes next, where kids begin formal lifesaving training and work toward certifications.