Why Choose Private Swimming Lessons?
100% Personal Attention
Your instructor focuses entirely on you, providing immediate feedback and personalized guidance every second of your lesson.
Learn Faster
Progress 2-3x faster than group lessons with instruction tailored to your exact skill level and learning pace.
Customized Goals
Lessons designed around your specific objectives, whether it's overcoming fear, improving technique, or training for events.
Flexible Scheduling
Book lessons at times that suit your schedule, including evenings and weekends. Many instructors offer home pool visits.
Private & Comfortable
Perfect for nervous swimmers or those who prefer a private setting. No pressure from watching peers or large groups.
Better Results
Higher success rates and satisfaction compared to group lessons, with most students achieving goals in fewer sessions.
Who Benefits from Private Lessons?
Complete Beginners
Build water confidence from scratch with patient, one-on-one guidance tailored to your comfort level.
Nervous or Anxious Swimmers
Work through water fears at your own pace in a private, judgement-free environment with an experienced instructor.
Competitive Swimmers
Refine technique, improve race times, and get personalized coaching for competitions or triathlons.
Busy Professionals
Make the most of limited time with intensive, focused lessons that fit your schedule.
Children Needing Extra Support
Kids who need more attention, have specific learning needs, or want to progress faster than group classes allow.
Adults Returning to Swimming
Refresh old skills, correct bad habits, or improve technique after years away from the pool.
Private vs Group Lessons: What's Right for You?
Private Lessons
£35-60 per session
Typically 30-60 minutes
Best for: Nervous swimmers, fast learners, those with specific goals, busy schedules
Group Lessons
£20-30 per session
Typically 45-60 minutes, 4-8 people
Best for: Budget-conscious learners, social learners, those wanting regular routine
Many swimmers start with private lessons to build confidence and technique, then move to group classes for ongoing practice and social interaction.
View full pricing guide →What to Look for in a Private Swimming Instructor
Qualifications & Certification
Look for instructors with recognized qualifications such as:
- Swimming Teachers' Association (STA) certification
- Amateur Swimming Association (ASA/Swim England) Level 2
- Current DBS check (for working with children)
- First Aid and CPR certified
Experience with Your Goals
Choose an instructor who specializes in your specific needs - whether that's working with nervous adults, competitive training, technique correction, or special needs instruction.
Teaching Style & Personality
The instructor-student relationship matters more in private lessons. Look for someone patient, encouraging, and whose communication style matches your learning preferences.
Reviews & References
Check reviews from other students, especially those with similar goals or concerns. Good instructors will be happy to provide references or testimonials.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do private swimming lessons cost?
Private swimming lessons in the UK typically cost £35-60 per session. Prices vary based on location (London is more expensive), instructor experience, lesson length (30-60 minutes), and whether lessons are at a public pool or private facility. Many instructors offer package deals for booking multiple sessions.
How long should private swimming lessons be?
Most private lessons are 30-60 minutes. Beginners and children often do better with 30-minute sessions to avoid fatigue, while more experienced swimmers or adults training for specific goals may prefer 45-60 minute sessions.
How many private lessons will I need?
It depends on your starting point and goals. Complete beginners typically need 8-12 private lessons to become comfortable and confident. Technique improvement might need 4-6 sessions. Most instructors will assess your progress and give you a realistic timeline after the first lesson.
Can I have private lessons at my own pool?
Yes! Many private instructors offer lessons at your home pool for an additional travel fee. This is convenient and comfortable but may cost £10-20 more per session. The instructor will need to check pool depth and suitability first.
Are private lessons worth the extra cost?
For most people, yes. While private lessons cost 50-100% more per session than group classes, you typically need fewer total lessons to reach your goals due to faster progress. Many swimmers find 8-10 private lessons achieve the same results as 20-25 group sessions. They're especially worth it for nervous swimmers, those with specific goals, or anyone wanting faster results.
Ready to Start Private Lessons?
Find qualified private swimming instructors near you and start making faster progress today.