The Journey to the A-Swimming Diploma

The A-Diploma is the first major milestone in a child's swimming journey. It is more than a certificate. It is proof that your child feels safe, comfortable and confident in the water.

The road to the A-Diploma is built around four clear levels. Each level has its own mascot, its own goals and its own small victories. This way children always know where they stand and what comes next.

Level 1, Sea Stars (Instructional Pool)

The first step is getting comfortable in the water and learning the first leg strokes. Children practise going fully underwater through a hoop with eyes open, short streamline floats on the belly and back, and the first movements of backstroke, breaststroke, front crawl and back crawl. They also dive for toys from a depth of 50 cm.

Level 2, Sea Horses (Instructional Pool)

At this level technique becomes more serious. Children swim 3 meters underwater through a hoop, float 10 seconds on belly and back without aids, and swim 10 meters of single backstroke and breaststroke. The first meters of front crawl and back crawl are added, with attention to calm breathing and long arm movements.

Level 3, Sea Seals (Competition Pool)

Now children move to the deep pool. The goal is technically correct strokes and a first (head-first) jump through a hole at 3 meters. They swim 25 meters of single backstroke, 25 meters of breaststroke, and turn from belly to back and back again while swimming. Treading water for 60 seconds is also part of it. All without aids.

Level 4, Sea Turtles (Competition Pool)

The final level prepares children for the A-Diploma requirements. They swim clothed, learn a forward foot jump, tread water for 15 seconds and swim 12.5 meters straight after. In swimwear they perform underwater swimming through a vertically hanging sail at 3 meters, followed by 25 meters breaststroke, 25 meters single backstroke, 5 meters front crawl and 5 meters back crawl. Only after at least 4 lessons of clothed swimming is the diploma within reach.

Why This Journey Works

At DREAMSSS we build skills step by step. Small groups, calm instruction and lots of repetition. Children don't only learn how to swim, they learn to trust the water. That confidence is what carries them toward their A-Diploma.

Conclusion

The A-Diploma is a four-level journey, built at a logical pace. With patience, playfulness and good guidance, every child can reach this goal. At DREAMSSS we walk this journey with you, from the first sea star to the confident sea turtle.