Frequently Asked Questions

The easiest way is to send an enquiry below, or message us on WhatsApp at +44 7751 210 336. We’ll discuss the swimmer’s age, experience and goals, and Hristo or Irina will personally call you back to arrange the most suitable next step.

We teach both children and adults. Children aged 3 and up follow our structured eight-level progression programme (Starfish to Shark), designed to build confident young swimmers with competitive potential for those who go all the way through. Adult learners follow an individual pathway shaped around their own goals: learning to float, improving fitness, stroke refinement, open-water preparation, or triathlon training. Same private 1-to-1 teaching, same expert team, different journey.

We teach swimmers from 3 years old upwards, including adults of any age. All lessons are fully private and tailored to each swimmer’s age, confidence and ability.

Private lessons are available in 30-minute, 45-minute and 60-minute durations, depending on age and ability.

For the fastest and most noticeable progress: for children and adults alike: we recommend 1, 2, or even 3 lessons per week. Consistency is the key to building confidence and mastering new skills.

All our lessons are completely private, one-to-one sessions: the swimmer receives 100% focused attention from the instructor throughout. Two-to-one lessons for siblings or friends may be available following an assessment; pricing is discussed on enquiry.

For children we teach eight progressive levels: Starfish through Shark: from complete beginner to advanced swimmer, with progress tracked in the parent portal. Adult learners don’t follow the level system; their lessons are shaped around personal goals, reviewed directly with the instructor.

Please mention this during your initial enquiry. Our instructors are experienced working with swimmers of all ages and varying abilities, and will happily adapt lessons to individual needs in our private one-to-one setting.

We teach at four London residential developments: Thames City (Nine Elms), Southbank Tower, 50 St Edmund’s Terrace (St John’s Wood) and Academy Gardens (Kensington W8): for residents of each development, and at selected private home pools. We are also open to new venues on request from residents.

Your pool should be heated to at least 28-30°C for comfort, the water clean and properly maintained, and a shallow area is ideal for beginners. We’ll happily discuss the suitability of your pool during the initial enquiry. A parent or guardian is always present for children’s lessons.

Our lessons are taught by Hristo and Irina, both fully qualified swim instructors with extensive experience teaching children of all ages and abilities. They hold Enhanced DBS checks and first-aid certifications.

• Swimsuit or swim shorts
• Towel
• Goggles
• Swim cap (provided free of charge by us)
• A drink of water

The fastest way is the WhatsApp button at the bottom-right of every page, or message us directly at +44 7751 210 336. You can also email info@hgswimacademy.co.uk.