Spotlight: Water Babies Gosforth
Baby and toddler swimming from birth to 4 years at the Grand Hotel's heated pool — specialist teachers, small class sizes, and the UK's highest swimming qualification for pre-schoolers.
The earlier children start in the water, the more natural swimming becomes. Water Babies Gosforth introduces babies to swimming from birth, using the heated indoor pool at The Grand Hotel in High Gosforth Park.
How it works
Parents and babies are in the water together with the teacher. Classes have a maximum of ten babies, and skills are taught through song, play, and repetition. The approach is gentle and confidence-building — there is no pressure, just gradual progression at each child's own pace.
Teacher qualifications
Water Babies teachers are trained to the highest standard through Swim England, exclusively earning the Level 3 Teaching Pre-School Swimming (Advanced) qualification. This is the highest swimming teaching qualification available for the pre-school age group.
Age groups
Babies can start straight from birth (as long as they are medically fit). The programme progresses through developmental stages, with children aged 4 and above swimming more independently with their teacher as they collect Water Babies Treasures and become what the programme calls "Swimvincible."
The venue
The Grand Hotel's heated indoor pool provides a warm, comfortable environment for young swimmers. The Gosforth Park location means easy access for families across the Gosforth and North Newcastle area.
Getting started
Visit waterbabies.co.uk for the current timetable and to book. Classes are popular, so booking ahead is recommended.