We're local experts in swimming lessons for children with Austism and SEN

Autism Spectrum & Special Educational Needs

1:1 and small group lessons for children and young adults

Does your child have: behavioural; emotional and social; speech, language and communication; hearing; visual, multi-sensory; physical or autism spectrum differences? Did you know people diagnosed with autism were seen to have a risk of drowning of more than 160 times that of their general peers? This could be because autistic children are more likely to visit places of water when they get anxious to feel a calming effect. Experts recommend prioritising swimming classes, over any other behavioural therapy, speech therapy or occupational therapy in order to help your child learn how to be safe around water.

Specialist Teaching

Our Head Coach Carolyn Hutchinson has undertaken specific advanced training with Autism Swim to help children with SEN. We are the only specialist provider within a 50 mile radius of Abingdon. Learn more about the Accreditation in this short video. She'll tailor the lesson to your child's individual needs and help them improve both their love for, safety and ability in the water. We realise you may have had a bad experience in the past. Her teaching approach is very gentle, nurturing and fun and she'll give you tips on enjoying swimming together. We also offer accessible settings to assist your child's enjoyment and learning.

We offer lessons at Milton Hill House in Steventon , Abingdon School Sports Centre and Kingfisher School in Abingdon. Two of these are small, quiet pools and one is very warm.

You do not need to be in the water with your child for the lesson and can watch from the poolside or relax in the viewing gallery.

Please get in touch with Carolyn directly to have a friendly chat about your child and see how we can help them on their swimming journey. If you'd like to know more of have any questions please don't hesitate to give us a call or email us.