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Northern Ireland's Leading
Inclusive Aquatic Programme
We are dedicated to providing a supportive environment for children of all abilities to learn essential water safety skills and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of swimming. Our team of experienced instructors and clinically led aquatic therapy experts help each Buddie develop water confidence and skills. Swimming Buddies is Autism Swim certified and brought the first inclusive programme of its kind to Europe. The team is led by Sarah-Jane and Joel who have almost 40 years' swim school experience between them. At Swimming Buddies, we believe in the transformative power of water and are passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of children and their families, helping our Buddies reach their full potential, whilst making friends - and having fun along the way!
Aquatic therapy offers a unique environment that supports physical, emotional, and sensory development in a calm and engaging way. Not only does it help build strength and stability in muscles by moving against the water, it promotes confident movement and co-ordination whilst reducing impact on joints. The water can have a powerful calming effect on your child’s nervous system. The gentle pressure and movement can help your child feel more settled, more focused, and more ready to engage and learn. We use imaginative games, bouncing, reaching, ball play, and gentle challenges to help your child enjoy being active in a way that works for them. Sometimes progress looks like swimming — and sometimes it looks like a splash and a giggle!
Meet Our Team
Welcome to the Swimming Buddies team! As our Buddies are individual learners and view, feel and understand the world in a unique way it means that the teaching process must be unique too. Our expert coaches deliver child centred learning, adaptable to each Buddie's needs, using visual aids, Makaton and supports to help process key swimming and water safety information. Our team is committed to creating a warm and inclusive environment where every child feels valued and supported. Get to know the wonderful people who make Swimming Buddies a special place for children to learn and grow!
- Fun & Friendship through Swimming -
