SEN Lessons and Provision

Inclusive Swimming Lessons

At The Standen Swim Academy, inclusivity is at the heart of everything we do. We believe everyone deserves the opportunity to learn to swim, feel safe in the water, and experience the confidence, freedom, and joy that swimming brings.

We recognize that traditional swimming lessons and busy pool environments don't suit every swimmer. Our goal is to collaborate with each swimmer, family, or carer to build a tailored environment where everyone feels safe, understood, and empowered to progress at their own pace.

Our Head of SEN Provision

Our Head of SEN Provision, Vikki Townsend, brings extensive expertise in supporting children and adults with additional needs.

Her qualifications and experience include:

  • 15+ years supporting children and adults with SEN

  • 10+ years working in SEN schools and charitable organisations

  • Fluency in Makaton Sign Language

  • Specialised Training: Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS), Autism Awareness, and Speech and Language Development

Vikki uses her deep expertise to shape our SEN framework while providing ongoing training, guidance, and mentorship to our entire teaching team.

Exclusive Private SEN Swimming Sessions

We offer dedicated daytime sessions at our private Three Oaks pool for swimmers who thrive in a quieter, calmer, and more controlled setting.

Families can book exclusive private pool use for their lesson, meaning:

  • zero distractions

  • no other classes in the water

  • no crowded poolside

  • no pressure to keep pace with anyone else

It's simply the swimmer, their instructor, and the space they need to learn comfortably.

Small Classes & Private Lessons

Throughout our swimming program, we keep class sizes exceptionally small, capping group lessons for ages 3 and up at just three swimmers.

For a more personalised experience, we also offer private 1:1 and 1:2 lessons.

We know that even in small groups, the noise, movement, echoes, and activity around a pool can feel overwhelming.

For swimmers who need a quieter, more tailored setting to overcome these sensory barriers, we provide fully custom 1:1 sessions designed around their comfort and needs.

Flexible Goals

Our SEN swimming provision isn't bound by rigid, traditional lesson stages. Instead, we customize every lesson around your goals, which may include:

  • Building water confidence and safety skills

  • Enjoying movement and freedom in the water

  • Developing trust with a dedicated instructor

  • Fostering independence, mobility, strength, and coordination

  • Mastering floating and self-rescue techniques

  • Preparing for family holidays or school swim trips

  • Simply enjoying a calm, therapeutic space

Funding & Professional Referrals

We welcome enquiries from families who have funding available for swimming lessons or activities, including those who can access support through an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), personal budget or other individual funding arrangement.

As options vary, please check with your local authority, school, or social care team to confirm if swimming can be included in your plan.

We also welcome enquiries and referrals from SENCOs, schools, local authorities, charities, support groups, social care professionals and other organisations supporting children and adults with additional needs.

Who Can Access Our SEN Provision?

Our specialist provision is open to both children and adults.

A formal diagnosis is never required- we welcome anyone who would benefit from smaller class sizes, 1:1 instruction, or a quieter, sensory-friendly environment.

If you aren't sure which setup is best, simply reach out. We are always happy to discuss your swimmer's unique needs and help you find the right fit.

We love partnering with families, carers, schools, charities, and support organisations. Contact The Standen Swim Academy today to explore how we can support your swimmer's journey.