Good to know
Frequently asked questions
1. Do you offer swimming lessons all year round?
We have 4 terms in a year. Each term is 13 weeks including 1 week of break. The term dates vary slightly each year, but as a rough guide:
Term 1 – January to March
Term 2 – April to June
Term 3 – July to September
Term 4 – October to December
There are no swimming lessons on Singapore public holidays and selected days. You will be notified of the dates at the beginning of each term and fees will be adjusted accordingly.
2. Is there registration cost?
Yes. There is a one-time non-refundable registration fee of $50.
3. How are fees paid?
Fees are paid in advance, before the start of the term/month depending on the package type. If you join halfway through the term/month, we will pro-rate the fees accordingly. We accept payments via PayNow and Bank Transfer.
4. When is the latest for me to make the payment for the next term?
As our slots are on a first come, first served basis, please make payment for the next term by the end of the term break. Late payments might result in your slot being given to other students.
5. What is the mode of communication between the school and parents?
Our mode of communication is via WhatsApp/Telegram/Message/Email. Please ensure that your particulars are correct and up to date.
6. How long are the swimming lessons?
All our swimming lessons are 30/45 minutes each depending on the class and programme type.
7. Is 30/45 minutes lesson sufficient for my child?
Research shows that young children have a shorter concentration span which causes them to get tired quickly, so they tend to reject any further information if the lesson continues for too long. Based on our experience, 30/45 minutes is a sweet spot where we achieve good progress in class while avoiding the class being too long for them.
8. How does your referral program work?
When you refer your friends or relatives to join us, both the referee and referrer will get a free lesson in the following term.
9. What is the make-up policy in OtterSwim?
We do not want your child to miss out on a lesson if they are unwell. To qualify for a make-up lesson:
– OtterSwim must be notified of a swimmer being absent prior to the class commencing.
– A Medical Certificate must be presented.
1) Term Package — the 1st and 2nd make-up lessons are automatically scheduled on the 2 Replacement Lessons at the end of the term. For the 3rd and subsequent make-up lessons, feel free to book them on any weekday in the same term. Make-up lessons not completed within the term are forfeited. If a make-up lesson is missed, it is forfeited.
2) Monthly Package — lessons will be forfeited. No make-up lessons will be offered.
10. What if the lessons are cancelled by the school?
If we cancel the lesson due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g. government-mandated school closure), we will reschedule it to the replacement week/term break. However, we will try to minimise such disruptions as we believe consistency is the key to learning swimming.
11. What if I do not have any lessons scheduled on replacement week?
To encourage consistency in students' learning, you are welcome to join our replacement lessons for free as bonus lessons.
12. Why is the make-up policy so inflexible?
From our experience, it is rather difficult for parents to arrange make-up classes outside of the student's original slot due to their busy schedule. Also, students' learning might be compromised when they attend a make-up lesson under a different coach. As such, we created this policy to ensure consistency and quality for our students' learning.
13. What happens when students are late?
Do note that lessons will proceed and end at the stipulated time. There will not be any extension of time.
14. What if the coach is absent?
To ensure consistency for your child and that they do not miss any classes, we will attempt to find another coach to conduct the class. In any unforeseen circumstances where we are unable to find a suitable replacement, we will cancel the class.
15. Are your swimming coaches certified and proficient in handling babies & toddlers of that age?
Our swimming coaches are all AUSTSWIM certified and Joey Lingo trained to conduct infant and toddler classes.
16. Do you do SwimSafer programmes?
We are able to train your child and help them register for SwimSafer programmes. However, due to our indoor pool limitation, the assessments are conducted elsewhere.
17. How long of a notice do I have to give to withdraw from the school?
As fees are paid termly, please notify us by WhatsApp at least 2 weeks prior to the end of each term that you will be discontinuing.
18. Why is the monthly package more expensive than the 12-week package?
The term package enjoys a cheaper rate compared to the monthly package as we have transferred the savings on recurring administration efforts back to our customers. In addition, this frees up the capacity of our Customer Service Officers to provide better service.
19. What happens if my child refuses to get in the water?
If your child cries, it doesn't really mean they aren't ready for swimming lessons. Your child may be adjusting to the separation from Mum or Dad, getting accustomed to the new surroundings, or just having a bad day. Give your child some time to develop their confidence — very soon they will be able to enjoy this wonderful experience in a totally relaxed environment with us.
20. How long does it take for my child to be able to swim on his/her own?
It truly differs from individual to individual. We have younger students who are very confident in the water and consistent with attending lessons, which helps them progress faster. We also have older students who had an unpleasant swimming experience that caused a fear of water, and it takes more time for them to overcome that fear and become confident swimmers. Rest assured, our experienced coaches will advise when a child is ready to progress to the next level. We cater to every child's individual needs, as every child is unique and learns differently.
21. How many times a week should my child swim?
At least once a week, ideally twice a week — we believe consistency is key.
22. Are your pools heated?
Yes. Our pools are heated to about 30 degrees year-round to provide a comfortable learning environment for all ages.
23. Why is the pool chlorinated?
Our pools are chlorinated to provide your child with the optimal hygienic environment.
24. Will I need to get into the water with my child?
In a parent-and-child programme, a parent is required in the water. We leverage the trust built with a parent/relative to help children through the initial stages of conditioning and confidence. We also recommend wearing a top that can be easily held by your child.
25. Can I group my 12-month-old baby with a 3-year-old toddler together?
As they are in different categories, we recommend conducting the classes separately. We use a different syllabus for Infant and Toddler swim lessons.
26. How early should I eat before the lesson?
It is recommended to eat about an hour before the lesson so that proper digestion can take place.
Baby OtterStart here
Otter
Seal
Dolphin
Stingray
SwordfishHighest level
