The Galleon Swim School

Your journey to effortless swimming

At the Galleon Swim school we aspire to teach safe fun and explorative lessons, so that each swimmer learns to swim with fluidity and ease.

Swim School Applications Currently Closed

We are sorry to advise that due to popular demand, the Galleon Swim School is currently full and we are not accepting new applications.

Due to the high demand for spaces we are also not inviting any more applications onto our waiting list.

When places become available on the waiting list or the swim programme, we will update this page accordingly.

Our Teaching

Class sizes are small at 2:1 or 4:1 for tuition and a 6:1 ratio for Club Ready
Non use of floatation devices
Each stroke is broken down by using simplistic skills and practices
All students are taught in the water by our teachers.

Our Teachers

All teachers will hold a Level 2 Swimming Qualification
Each teacher will hold a current water safety qualification and will participate in regular training sessions in house at The Galleon Club
Quarterly CPD will be held to keep up to date on swimming techniques and teaching methodology
Everyone will hold a full Enhanced CRB Certificate.

Swimming Coordinator

Karen McArthur

Hi my name is Karen McArthur and I am the Swimming Coordinator at The Galleon Swim School. I am a professional swimming teacher with over 20 years experience teaching swimming to children and adults. I have worked in various schools in Scotland and England. My vast experience and knowledge of swimming also allows me to teach in different group sizes, ranging from 1:1, 2:1, 4:1 up to 8:1 in a class.

Over the past 10 years I have adopted an in the water approach whilst teaching swimming lessons and non use of floatation devices at lower levels, only being introduced when the swimmer has the skills and ability to manage them (advanced). My knowledge and experience as a swimmer and teacher allows me to break down each stroke using simplistic skills and drills allowing the swimmer to understand each stage of the stroke. All strokes are taught in a specific sequence starting from basic principles of swimming, water confidence, breath control, floating, gliding, kicking and deep water confidence which then leads onto backstroke, front crawl, breaststroke and butterfly.

My main passion in life is to teach swimming to children and adults and allow them to have the ability to swim beautifully with confidence and enjoy the water as much as I do. Swimming is not only a major life skill but also a sport and provides many health benefits. I want everyone to have the opportunity to experience being in the water and enjoy swimming.

Welcome to The Galleon Swimming School.
Karen

Teachers

Aleksandra (Ola)

My swimming journey began when I was 6 years old. I had been chosen for a swimming club in Krakow where I had been in finals of the junior Poland championships.

Becoming a swimmer gave me the opportunity to acquire skills and possibility of development towards water rescue/lifeguard and swimming instructor.

With my passion for swimming , in 2009 I decided to become a swimming instructor and hold a SSTQ Level 2 qualification.

In Poland I had my own swimming school where I teach kids in any level from 3 years old, babies and adults.

I've been employed in the Centre of sport and recreation KOLNA Krakow, Aquasport Swimming School Olkusz, Poland where I teach kids full time for 5 years until I moved to Scotland in 2014.

Since then I have been a full time private nanny. GWC give me opportunity to become the swimming teacher again and I can't wait to get in to the water and teach your kids how to swim.

Manuel

I am a PE Teacher in Edinburgh, passionate about sports, swimming, cycling, triathlon, archery, hiking, camping, you name it.

I have been teaching swimming for about 20 years.

I was competing in swimming for about 15 years, also in Triathlons, doing Olympic and Ironman distance.

I work full time in a Primary School

I spend my free time, cycling around Scotland, or gigging with my band.

Mario

Hola! from the vibrant landscapes of Spain! I'm Mario, and I bring the best of both worlds to the table.

I'm not just your average swimming teacher—I'm a dynamic, fully qualified instructor with over 12 years of making a splash in the world of swimming. But that's not all! I've got a teaching background in education which has allowed me to develop a very good understanding of a child’s mind and to be great at communicating instructions.

I get a profound sense of fulfilment from witnessing the progress of my swimmers, starting from their early stages when they rely on my unwavering support in the water to eventually evolving into independent and highly proficient swimmers as they grow. It's a rewarding journey that fuels my passion for teaching, and the joy of seeing young minds develop their aquatic skills is truly unparalleled.

Now, when I'm not all about the pool, not guiding others through the wonders of swimming, you'll find. me embracing the thrill of the trails on a bike. Life with me is a vibrant mix of aquatic expertise, sportsmanship, and a zest for adventure. Come join the journey—I promise it's a ride you won't want to miss!

Owen

Hi I’m Owen,

I am a former swimmer with a decade of competitive experience. I started swimming for Warrender Baths Club in Edinburgh at age 9, going on to compete against the UK’s very best swimmers throughout the rest of my school career.

I have served on multiple junior national squads and had the opportunity to learn from some of the most accomplished coaches in all of British swimming.

Upon the conclusion of my own competitive swimming journey at the end of 2022 I made the decision to train as a swimming teacher. As a former Watson’s pupil myself I look forward to imparting my vast knowledge and wealth of experience onto the next generation of young swimmers.

Andy May

Hello, my name is Andy, swimming truly is one of life’s great pleasures.

As a former competitor I can vouch for the experiences that last a lifetime.

But, the privilege to teach the next generation to swim, to share that passion for this sport, the enjoyment and pass on a vital life skill is even greater.

Rowan

I am Rowan. I qualified as a swim teacher in 2022 and have been teaching ever since. I currently work in the Galleon as a Lifeguard and I am delighted to be soon teaching swimming for the Galleon. I am a swimmer, having swam from an early age and competitively for Hearts Swim Club and my school, George Watson’s College. I still remember my favourite swim teachers and coaches encouraging me to improve. My favourite event is the Individual Medley, where you get the chance to do all four strokes. My love of water switched to Rowing, where I still train and compete. It takes the same commitment as swimming. When not doing the above, I am studying for a law degree.

I look forward to being part of the Galleon Swim School and teaching everything I love about swimming, but importantly, having lots of fun while learning.

Andy Bowie

Hi my name is Andy. I was a swimmer with Warrender Baths Club for 14 years. I competed all across the UK and learnt from some of the best coaches in the country. After my competitive days I kept up my training with the masters and joined the waterpolo team. I have been teaching swimming for 25+ years to all ages and abilities. To me there is nothing better than helping people gain confidence and enjoyment out of swimming.

Erik

Hi, I’m Erik and I’m from Mexico, where I was a PE teacher and swimming coach for over 20 years. My experience in the pool has given me an excellent knowledge of swimming which I use to tailor my classes and teaching style to meet individual needs. I have strong people skills and am quick to develop trust and instil confidence in the water. I always try to make classes fun and motivating, which helps build confidence and remove barriers to learning. I have a unique breadth of experience from teaching babies and toddlers to enjoy the water to training high-performance Paralympic swimmers. I am passionate and professional in everything I do in the swimming pool

Josh Broadley

Hi there! My name is Josh, and I’m a third-year Physical Education student at the University of Edinburgh. I have always had a passion for sports and teaching, which has shaped my dream of teaching and becoming a PE teacher.

Swimming has always been a big part of my life, and I’ve been teaching it for over a year here in Edinburgh since moving for university. Before that, I spent my summers in the U.S. teaching swimming at a summer camp, which was an incredible opportunity to combine my love for the water with my enthusiasm for working with young people.

Throughout my journey, I’ve been inspired by the amazing teachers who left a lasting impact on me, and I strive to create those same meaningful experiences for the children in my classes. My goal is to make swimming lessons fun, safe, and rewarding, helping every child grow in confidence and skill both in and out of the water.

Amelie Bannister

Hi I’m Amelie, I'm a dedicated swim instructor from Glasgow, with both lifeguard and swim teacher qualifications. I have extensive experience working with swimmers of all ages and abilities, from beginners taking their first strokes to advanced swimmers refining their technique.

I always ensure that my lessons are engaging, safe, and tailored to each individual's needs. Whether you're starting your swimming journey or looking to enhance your skills, I'm here to help you reach your goals!

Swimming Programme

Swim School Applications Currently Closed

We are sorry to advise that due to popular demand, the Galleon Swim School is currently full and we are not accepting new applications.

If you would like to be placed onto a waiting list please review the swim programme information below and email Karen on galleonswimschool@gwc.org.uk detailing what Swim Skill your child would be and what days would work best for you.

Lessons will run Tuesday to Thursday for 30 minutes.
Tuesday- 3.45pm to 6.15pm
Wednesday- 3.45pm to 6.15pm
Thursday- 3.45pm to 6.15pm

Preschool/Non Swimmer lessons

We strongly believe that before starting school children should start swimming! It’s a life skill and Preschool swimming lessons develop the essential confidence and core skills that young children need to be safer in water.

Aim: To become water confident and develop core aquatic skills with the assistance of a swimming teacher.

Introduce complete non-swimmers to the aquatic environment and establish an understanding of safety in and around water.
Develop and progress water confidence
Establish an understanding of basic core aquatic skills
1. Enter and exit the pool safely
2. Shallow water confidence
3. Putting your face in the water
4. Practising blowing bubbles, nose and mouth
5. Aided floatation
6. Encouraging freedom of movement.
Develop skills through enjoyment, fun and self-discovery
1. Splashing
2. Water waving
3. Jumping in (aided).

Swim Skills levels 1-4

When learners have developed a basic level of confidence in water they can start to progress through the Swim Skill levels to develop their aquatic competence and become a safer swimmer. Each level of Swim Skills has:

An overall aim of clearly defined objectives.

Swim Skills 1

Aim: To further develop water confidence and develop core aquatic skills.

Objectives:

Develop confidence and ability to perform a wide range of core aquatic skills
Full breath control
Correct body position on back and front
Floating back and front (working towards unaided)
Submersion for sinkers (dolphin technique)
Gliding and streamlining
Kicking technique Back and front (backstroke and front crawl)
Travelling through the water, aided and unaided up to 5 metres
Floating award, front and back (certificate).

Swim Skills 2

Aim: To increase the competency of the core aquatic skills and develop basic stroke technique

Objectives:

Introduce and progress new core aquatic skills using techniques such as:
1. Travelling up to 5 metres
2. Kicking back and front 10 metres.
3. Body rolling
4. Sculling
Introduction to backstroke arm pull technique
Introduction to undulation - Hands by the side, on your front and on the surface of the water (working on a small wiggle)
Deep water confidence.
Introduction to diving (pool permitting)
Kicking front and back 10m award (certificate).

Swim Skills 3

Aim: Introduce more advanced stroke technique.

Objectives:

Further develop competency in backstroke technique
Stamina building to obtain a distance of 25 metres
Front crawl breath control (breathing to the side)
Breakdown of front crawl technique using individual skills and drills
Travelling up to 5 metres of front crawl
Sculling on the front, arms in the front of the head
Undulation - Hands by the side, on your front and on the surface of the water. Working on a small wiggle, swimming up to 10 metres
Push off under the water, undulation up to 5 metres
Kneeling dive technique.
Backstroke timing and rhythm
Backstroke 25m award (certificate)
Front crawl 15m award (certificate)

Swim Skills 4 (4:1 ratio)

Aim: To improve the quality of stroke technique, introduce multi aquatic skills/disciplines and basic lifesaving skills

Objectives:

Front crawl stamina building 25m
Backstroke challenge, 50m distance
Front crawl timing and rhythm
Sculling on the back, feet first, arms at the side - up to 25m
Backstroke and front crawl starts and turns
Development of standing dive
Introduction to breaststroke leg kick
Breaststroke timing and rhythm
Front crawl 100m award (certificate)
Backstroke 200m award (certificate)
Breaststroke 25m award (certificate)

Club Ready (6:1 ratio)

Club Ready is the final stage of the National Learn to Swim programme when swimmers will have mastered all the three main strokes and be ready to further develop in a club environment.

Aim: To improve and maintain stroke technique over distance and develop basic training and race skills producing a swimmer who is Club Ready

Objectives:

Advance swimming stamina for all three strokes whilst maintaining technique. Backstroke, Front crawl and Breaststroke
Introduction to Butterfly technique. Develop starts and turns for all three strokes
Butterfly timing and rhythm
Butterfly start and turn
Improve efficiency in all four strokes
Backstroke 400m award (certificate)
Front Crawl 200m award (certificate)
Breaststroke 100m award (certificate)
Butterfly 25m award (certificate)
Individual Medley - Butterfly, Backstroke, Breaststroke & Butterfly - 100m
Individual Medley award (certificate)

Club Ready + (6:1 ratio) - 60 minute sessions

Club Ready+ is the next stage after completing the final stage of the National Learn to Swim programme and when swimmers have mastered all four strokes. These sessions are for those swimmers who are are ready to further develop in a club environment.

Aim: Maintaining stroke technique over longer distances and developing training and racing skills.

Individual Medley - Butterfly, Backstroke, Breaststroke & Butterfly
Lane etiquette
Interval training
Timed swims
Relays
Butterfly 100m with seamless turns and under water dolphin kicks
Front crawl 400m with seamless turns and under water dolphin kicks.
Backstroke 200m with seamless turns and under water dolphin kicks
Breast Stroke 200m with seamless turns and under water dolphin kicks
Individual Medley turns
200m Individual Medley (Certificate)

Swim Blocks and Pricing

Term Dates

Next Block: Tuesday 29 October - Thursday 12 December 7 week block
2:1	£196
4:1	£112
6:1	£77
Club Ready + (1 Hour)	£147

New Year Block: Tuesday 07 January - Thursday 03 April 12 week block (No lessons running during February break: 10 - 14 Feb)
All lessons are sold as a 10 week block
2:1	£28
4:1	£16
6:1	£11
Club Ready + (1 Hour)	£21

Summer Term Block: Tuesday 22 April - Thursday 26 June 10 week block (No lessons running during February break: 10 - 14 Feb)
All lessons are sold as a 10 week block
2:1	£28
4:1	£16
6:1	£11
Club Ready + (1 Hour)	£21

1:1 lessons are not currently available.

All lessons are taught in the water with a swimming teacher, without the use of floatation devices.

Our lessons run 36 weeks of the year during school term time.

Swim Holiday Clubs

We also run intensive swimming camps, Monday to Friday for 30-60 minutes. This is a great opportunity for your child to work on their swimming skills over the school holidays and have fun!

February Holiday Camp: Monday 10 Feb - Friday 14 Feb 1 week intensive lessons
Galleon swim school member price	£100
Non member price	£120

February Holiday Camp: Monday 10 Feb - Friday 14 Feb

1 week intensive lessons

Galleon swim school member price

£100

Non member price

£120

Adult Swimming Lessons

Adult lessons are now available at The Galleon Swim School.

Classes will begin from 6.30pm and will be for 45 mins and will be taught at a 1-1 ratio, last time slot is at 8.45pm.

To book please contact the teachers below via email. Further information on our teachers is available in the Our Team tab.

Amelie Bannister - Monday - a.bannister@gwc.org.uk

Manuel Munoz Ibanez - Tuesday - m.munozibanez@gwc.org.uk
Karen McArthur - Tuesday & Thursday - k.mcarthur@gwc.org.uk
Aleksandra Piskorz - Wednesday - a.piskorz@gwc.org.uk
Mario Sánchez - Wednesday - m.sanchezroman@gwc.org.uk

Prices
Taster session	£35
X3 lessons	£100
X5 lessons	£160
X10 lessons	£300

All payments are made at The Galleon.

For further information please contact Karen McArthur Swim School Coordinator on 0131 446 6066 or email galleonswimschool@gwc.org.uk