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Student swimming laps in UNSW pool

Swimming is for everyone

Australia is world-renowned for many things, but one thing that stands out is definitely the closeness to water and our beach culture. Being the only country that is also a continent, we are surrounded by three of the world’s oceans: the Indian Ocean, Pacific Ocean, and the Southern Ocean. Our love for the blue expanse has naturally led to the importance of learning how to swim.

But if you did not grow up here, or did not have the opportunity to learn this valuable life skill, that is completely okay!

The Learn to Swim Program, delivered by the UNSW College Wellbeing Team in partnership with Medibank and UNSW Fitness & Aquatic Centre, is where you'll learn the skills you need to make the most of Sydney’s incredible beaches, pools and water beds, all within just 8 weeks. This program includes 8 x 1-hour sessions with a qualified instructor to work on your swimming skills and water safety. Moreover it's an amazing way to meet new friends, get a little bit of exercise and become more ingrained in Australian culture.

Everything you need to know

  • 🧍 8 x Beginner Swim Lessons
    One-hour weekly sessions with qualified instructors at the UNSW Fitness & Aquatic Centre.

    🏊 Pool Access
    Unlimited access to the swimming pool for the duration of the program.

    🎁 Goodie Bag
    Includes essential water safety items.

    👋 Welcome Session
    Meet your instructors, fellow swimmers, and get introduced to program expectations.

    🧑‍🏫 Learn to Swim Mentor
    Receive guidance, support and tips throughout the 8 weeks.

    🎉 End of Program Dinner
    Celebrate your achievements with your fellow participants.

    📜 Certificate + Gift
    Attend at least 80% of lessons to receive a certificate of completion and an exciting gift worth $25 

    • This program is open only to current UNSW College students. Both domestic and international students are able to participate in the program.
    • The program is designed to teach students with little or no swim experience. You do not need any prior experience with swimming to join the program.  
    • Students who can confidently swim are NOT encouraged to join the program. If you can swim 15 metres or more, you are not eligible to join the program.  
    • We expect you to attend ALL sessions as this is a highly sought-after program.
    • This program is only open for students who have not completed the program before. 
    • No refunds once the program begins (unless in exceptional circumstances).
    • No make-up classes if you miss a session.
    • You must stay in your assigned class day, no switching between classes.
Cost
$75 per person
This one-time fee covers the entire 8-week Learn to Swim program, including weekly lessons, pool access, workshops, and program extras.
Bonus gift
Get rewarded
Students who attend at least 6 out of 8 sessions will also receive a small gift (e.g. merchandise)
Did you know?
It’s amazing value
A single swim lesson at the Fitness & Aquatic Centre costs $38 every fortnight. This program gives you 8 weekly lessons for just $75

Upcoming intakes

September Intake

Program dates: Every Saturday from 12 September for 8-weeks until 31 October 2026.

Register for the September intake here

Progression Program September Intake

Program dates: Every Saturday from 26 September for 6-weeks until 31 October 2026.

The 6-week Progression Program is perfect for participants who have completed the LTS Program and are ready to build greater confidence in the water. You’ll focus on refining technique, improving efficiency, and learning more advanced stroke skills, all while continuing to strengthen your water safety knowledge.

Register for the Progression September intake here

Due to the popularity of this program, if the Learn to Swim program gets sold out, please join our waitlist here and be the first to hear about the next set of dates.

  • Beach Ocean Safe Program

    If you’re looking to feel more confident in the water, meet new people and learn more about the Australian water and beach culture then join us for this 4-week program where you’ll gain the skills you need to stay safe while enjoying Sydney’s incredible beaches.

Have a question about the Learn to Swim program?

Whether you're unsure about eligibility, what to bring to your first session, or how the refund policy works, we're here to help!

UNSW College delivers its Foundation Studies, Academic English, Diplomas, and Pre-Masters Program, under CRICOS Provider Code 01020K; TEQSA Provider ID: PRV13020 (Institute of Higher Education).

UNSW College delivers its Applied Degrees under TEQSA Provider ID: PRV13020 (Institute of Higher Education).

UNSW College also delivers UNSW Diplomas on behalf of UNSW Sydney under CRICOS Provider Code 00098G; UNSW Sydney TEQSA Provider ID: PRV12055 (Australian University).

See unswcollege.edu.au/esos for more information.

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