Swimming Lessons for All Ages at Felix Swim Schools

Swim Lessons in Toronto for All Ages

With over 40 years of experience, Felix Swim Schools has designed and refined one of the most effective swimming lessons and programs in Toronto. Guided by a philosophy rooted in water safety, progressive learning, and personalized instruction, our curriculum accommodates swimmers of every age and ability—from first-time toddlers to aspiring lifeguards.

👥 Swim Lesson Sizes & Instructor Ratios

At Felix Swim Schools, we prioritize safety, focus, and individualized attention by maintaining small class sizes. Our swim lesson ratios are designed to provide the best learning environment for swimmers of all ages and skill levels.

Lesson TypeInstructor-to-Swimmer Ratio
Parent & Tot1 instructor : 6 pairs
Preschool Learn-to-Swim1 instructor : 3 swimmers
Kids Learn-to-Swim1 instructor : 4 swimmers
Swim Patrol / Bronze Programs1 instructor : 10 swimmers
Private Lessons1 instructor : 1 swimmer
Semi-Private Lessons1 instructor : 2 swimmers
Small Group Private1 instructor : 3 swimmers

These ratios ensure that each swimmer receives personalized coaching, quicker progress, and greater confidence in the water.

🏊‍♂️ Learn-to-Swim: Toddlers to Teens

At Felix Swim Schools, our Learn-to-Swim programs are carefully designed to build confidence, safety, and technique at every age. Whether your child is just getting comfortable in the water or preparing to master advanced strokes, our certified instructors use a proven level-based system that supports individual progress at every stage.

We offer programs for:

  • Toddlers & Preschoolers (Ages 3 months to 5 years):
    Early introduction to water safety, floating, submersion, and fun water play with a parent or independently, depending on age and level.
  • Children (Ages 6 to 12):
    Structured levels that teach front crawl, backstroke, breathing techniques, deep water comfort, and endurance building.
  • Teens (Ages 13 to 17):
    Whether they’re beginners or brushing up on stroke technique, our teen-focused lessons help build skill and confidence at a comfortable pace.

All lessons follow a consistent progression path, with small class sizes, continuous assessment, and personalized instruction to ensure each swimmer develops at their own pace.

👉 Learn more about each level on our Learn-to-Swim Programs page

👶 Parent & Tot Swim Lessons

Felix Swim Schools offers gentle, engaging baby swimming lessons in Toronto designed for infants and toddlers aged 4 months to 3 years. Our Parent & Tot swim program is the ideal introduction to the water for your little one—combining fun, safety, and early skill development with strong parent-child bonding.

Whether you’re looking for newborn swimming lessons, infant swim classes, or just a way to get your baby comfortable in the pool, our certified instructors guide you through age-appropriate water activities that promote coordination, comfort, and confidence.

What to expect from our Parent & Tot classes:

  • Fun, structured water play for babies and toddlers
  • Floating, submersion, and kicking basics with caregiver support
  • A positive, social environment that fosters early aquatic development
  • Certified instructors trained in early childhood swim education

Our classes offer small group sizes and heated indoor pools across 7 GTA locations. Many families use this as a stepping stone before their child transitions to independent lessons.

👉 Discover more about levels, age breakdowns, and scheduling on our Parent and Tot Swim Lessons page

🧍 Adult Swim Lessons

At Felix Swim Schools, we believe it’s never too late to learn how to swim—or to improve your skills in the water. Our Adult Swim Lessons are tailored for swimmers of all backgrounds, whether you’re just starting out or refining your technique for fitness or recreation.

We offer adult swimming classes in Toronto that are welcoming, supportive, and progress-driven. Each lesson is taught by certified instructors who understand the unique needs of adult learners and focus on building comfort, confidence, and endurance.

Our programs include:

  • Beginner Adult Swim Lessons:
    Perfect for adults with little or no swim experience. Learn the basics—floating, gliding, breath control, and front/back swim—in a stress-free environment.
  • Intermediate & Advanced Adult Classes:
    Focus on improving front crawl, backstroke, and breaststroke technique, building stamina, and mastering deep water skills.
  • Private & Semi-Private Adult Lessons:
    One-on-one or small group instruction to accelerate learning or target specific goals. Great for overcoming fear, training for triathlons, or working on stroke improvement.

We offer both group and private adult swimming lessons across Toronto, with flexible scheduling at all of our 7 GTA locations.

👉 Learn more about available options on our Adult Swim Lessons page

🥇 Bronze Star, Medallion & Cross Courses

Ready to take the next step in your aquatic journey? Felix Swim Schools offers the Bronze Star, Bronze Medallion, and Bronze Cross courses as part of our advanced swim training and lifeguard preparation programs in Toronto.

These nationally recognized certifications from the Lifesaving Society teach vital rescue skills, CPR, water safety, and leadership—and they’re the required path to becoming a certified lifeguard or swim instructor.

🔶 Bronze Star (Ages 9+)

An excellent introduction to lifesaving. Swimmers develop problem-solving and rescue techniques, CPR-A, and Water Smart® skills. It’s great prep for Bronze Medallion, especially for younger teens.

🔶 Bronze Medallion

This course focuses on judgment, fitness, and the principles of water rescue. Candidates learn CPR-B, carry out timed rescues, and build endurance with swims up to 400m.

🔶 Bronze Cross

The next step after Medallion, Bronze Cross prepares candidates for employment as an assistant lifeguard and is a prerequisite for National Lifeguard certification. Training includes deep-water rescues, spinal injury management, and advanced fitness requirements.

Each course is taught by certified instructors in small class settings. Felix Swim Schools makes Bronze certification in Toronto accessible and empowering for youth ready to lead.

👉 View prerequisites and upcoming sessions on our Bronze Courses page

🚨 Swim Patrol: Pre-Lifeguard Training for Kids

The Swim Patrol program at Felix Swim Schools is the first step on the path toward lifeguarding and leadership. Designed for strong swimmers aged 9 and up, our pre-lifeguard swim program builds rescue skills, endurance, and water safety awareness—making it ideal for kids who have completed advanced Learn-to-Swim levels and are ready for a challenge.

The program includes three progressive levels:

  • Rookie Patrol:
    Focuses on basic first aid, fitness, and water safety. Introduces timed swims and elementary rescue techniques.
  • Ranger Patrol:
    Expands on endurance, stroke efficiency, and first aid—including victim assessment and airway procedures.
  • Star Patrol:
    Prepares swimmers for Bronze Star with advanced lifesaving skills, rescue response, and fitness challenges.

Each level is taught by certified instructors and follows Lifesaving Society guidelines. It’s a great way to develop confidence, responsibility, and teamwork before moving on to official lifeguard certification.

👉 Learn more about program requirements and level details on our Swim Patrol program page

🏅 Swim Team Training

For swimmers ready to take their skills to the next level, our Felix Swim Team program offers a supportive, goal-driven environment focused on technique, endurance, and performance. Open to strong swimmers aged 6 and up, this program introduces youth to the world of recreational and competitive swim training—without the pressure of high-stakes competition.

Why families choose the Felix Swim Team:

  • Emphasis on stroke refinement, pacing, and race techniques
  • Weekly practice sessions guided by certified competitive coaches
  • Builds stamina, confidence, and team spirit in a fun, structured setting
  • Great prep for future swim meets or school competitions

If your child has completed the advanced levels of our Learn-to-Swim program and is eager for more, the Felix Swim Team is the perfect next step. We welcome both returning swimmers and new athletes looking for swim team opportunities for kids in Toronto.

👉 Explore eligibility and schedules on our Swim Team program page

🧑‍🏫 Instructor Certification Programs

Felix Swim Schools proudly offers industry-leading instructor certification programs in Toronto, approved by the Lifesaving Society. Whether you’re a teen ready to start teaching or an advanced swimmer looking to turn your passion into a profession, these courses provide the skills and credentials to become a certified instructor.

🟢 Assistant Instructor Course

A great starting point for future teachers. Learn how to assist in swim classes, manage groups, and support safety protocols under the supervision of a certified instructor.

You’ll develop:

  • Leadership and communication skills
  • Understanding of swim progressions and class structure
  • Hands-on experience assisting real classes

👉 Learn more or register: Assistant Instructor Program


🟡 Swim Instructor Course

Get certified to teach swimming lessons independently through the Lifesaving Society. This course trains candidates to plan lessons, deliver effective feedback, assess progress, and manage various age groups.

Includes:

  • Lesson planning and delivery strategies
  • Evaluation and progress tracking
  • Emergency procedures and swimmer safety

👉 Learn more about becoming a certified instructor: Swim Instructor Certification


🔵 Lifesaving Instructor Course

This advanced course certifies you to teach Bronze Star, Medallion, and Cross. Ideal for those pursuing leadership in aquatic safety and lifeguard training.

Topics include:

  • Lifesaving teaching techniques
  • Evaluation of rescue skills and first aid scenarios
  • Lesson planning for aquatic leadership courses

👉 Get full course details here: Lifesaving Instructor Training

🛟 National Lifeguard & Recertification

Felix Swim Schools offers the official National Lifeguard certification in Toronto, preparing candidates for real-world lifeguarding responsibilities. As the gold standard for lifeguard training in Canada, this course meets all Lifesaving Society requirements for aquatic safety, rescue skills, and emergency response.

🟥 National Lifeguard – Pool

For swimmers 15 years and older who have completed Bronze Cross and Standard First Aid, this intensive course trains you to prevent, recognize, and respond to aquatic emergencies.

Topics include:

  • Advanced rescue techniques and spinal injury management
  • Team-based response scenarios and pool supervision
  • Fitness, endurance, and victim recognition
  • Emergency First Aid and oxygen administration

This course is ideal for teens and young adults who want to become a certified lifeguard in Toronto and qualify for poolside employment.

👉 Full course details and schedule: National Lifeguard Program


🔁 National Lifeguard Recertification

Already certified? Maintain your qualifications with our National Lifeguard recertification course in Toronto. This one-day refresher ensures your rescue techniques, first aid, and decision-making skills remain current and effective.

This course includes:

  • Review of core lifeguarding principles
  • Emergency response updates and scenario practice
  • Certification renewal (Lifesaving Society standards)

👉 Book your spot here: National Lifeguard Recertification

🚑 Emergency & Standard First Aid Certification

Felix Swim Schools offers essential first aid certification courses in Toronto designed for youth, teens, and adults pursuing lifeguard training or workplace safety qualifications. These programs meet Lifesaving Society standards and include hands-on instruction in CPR, emergency response, and injury management.

🔸 Emergency First Aid with CPR-B

Perfect for parents, coaches, and future instructors. This one-day course provides the fundamentals of emergency care, including:

  • How to respond to conscious and unconscious victims
  • Bleeding control and shock treatment
  • CPR for adults, children, and infants (CPR-B certification included)

Learn more about this course: Emergency First Aid Certification in Toronto

🔸 Standard First Aid with CPR-C

A comprehensive two-day program, Standard First Aid is required for many lifeguard and swim instructor roles. It includes:

  • Advanced injury and illness management
  • CPR-C for all age groups, including two-rescuer CPR
  • Spinal injury, choking, and environmental emergencies

Learn more or register now: Standard First Aid Course in Toronto

Both courses are taught by certified first aid instructors and include official Lifesaving Society certification valid for 3 years.

📈 Swim Level Progression & Prerequisites

At Felix Swim Schools, we follow a carefully structured progression system to ensure each swimmer learns skills at the right pace and level. Whether starting in our Parent & Tot program, moving through our Learn-to-Swim levels, or training for Bronze certifications, we help swimmers build confidence and mastery step by step.

🟢 Choosing the Right Level

New swimmers are placed based on age, skill, and comfort in the water—not just previous experience. If you’re unsure which level to choose, our instructors can evaluate your child on their first day or arrange a quick pre-assessment during open swim hours.

🔄 Moving Up a Level

Progress is monitored throughout the session, and instructors provide feedback during and after the program. At the end of each session, every swimmer receives a report card indicating:

  • Skills achieved
  • Areas to improve
  • Recommended next level

🧒 Age-Based Entry Guidelines

  • 3 months – 3 years → Parent & Tot
  • 3 – 5 years → Preschool Learn-to-Swim
  • 6 – 12 years → Kids Learn-to-Swim
  • 13 – 17 years → Teen Learn-to-Swim or Bronze programs
  • 17+ years → Adult Swim Lessons
  • 9+ years with Ultra Swim 8+ skills → Swim Patrol & Bronze Star
  • 15+ with Bronze Cross & Standard First Aid → National Lifeguard

Our team is always happy to help you choose the right level or adjust your swimmer’s placement if needed.

👉 Explore program details on our Learn-to-Swim Programs page

🎉 Birthday Swimming Parties

Make a splash on your child’s special day with a birthday swimming party at Felix Swim Schools! Our birthday party packages offer a fun, active, and memorable celebration in a safe, family-friendly environment.

Kids will enjoy pool time with their friends, led by certified swim instructors and lifeguards, followed by exclusive use of a decorated party space for cake, food, and games.

Why choose Felix for your swimming birthday party in Toronto?

  • Supervised swim session with experienced staff
  • Private party room for post-swim celebrations
  • Safe, clean, and climate-controlled indoor pools
  • Ideal for all swim levels — no experience needed
  • Available at select GTA locations

Whether it’s your toddler’s first pool party or a fun celebration for older swimmers, our team handles the details so you can relax and enjoy the moment.

👉 Learn more and book your child’s big day on our Birthday Party page

❓Frequently Asked Questions

1. What’s the best age to start baby swim classes?
We welcome babies as young as 3 months old in our Parent & Tot classes. Early water exposure helps with motor development and comfort in aquatic environments.

2. How long does it take to complete a swim level?
Most swimmers complete a level within 8–10 sessions, but every child progresses differently. Consistent attendance and comfort in water help speed up progress.

3. Can siblings with different skill levels join the same class?
To ensure safety and skill development, we group swimmers by ability. We recommend separate levels but can coordinate back-to-back scheduling for convenience.

4. What happens if I miss a class?
We offer make-up options depending on class type and availability. Contact your location directly to check eligibility and rescheduling options.

5. Do private swim lessons help kids learn faster?
Yes. Private lessons allow for personalized attention, faster correction, and more time per swimmer—ideal for nervous beginners or advanced swimmers working on technique.

6. Is Bronze Medallion harder than Bronze Star?
Yes. Bronze Medallion includes timed swims, deeper rescue theory, and CPR. Bronze Star is recommended as a foundation but not mandatory for entry.

7. Can adults who are afraid of water join swim classes?
Absolutely. Our adult beginner swim classes in Toronto are designed specifically for nervous swimmers. We focus on building trust, comfort, and safety in shallow water first.

🏁 Ready to Dive In?

At Felix Swim Schools, we’re more than just lessons — we’re building lifelong confidence, water safety, and a love for swimming in every student. Whether you’re enrolling your baby in their first Parent & Tot class, preparing for Bronze Medallion certification, or looking for adult swim lessons in Toronto, we have a program that fits your goals.

With 7 convenient GTA locations, expert-certified instructors, and programs for every age and ability, your swim journey starts here.

Register online or Contact Us

Let’s make a splash—join thousands of Toronto families who trust Felix Swim Schools for fun, safe, and professional swimming education.

LOCATIONS & SCHEDULES7 LOCATIONS IN THE GREATER TORONTO AREA TO SERVE YOU BETTER!

BEACHES

181 Broadview Ave, Toronto, ON M4M 2G3, Canada

647-529-2999

Tue & Thu: 5:00PM – 9:00PM
Wed: 5:30PM – 8:30PM
Sat – Sun: 9:30AM – 2:30PM
Mon & Fri: Closed

DOWNTOWN

64 Baldwin St, Toronto, ON M5T 1L4, Canada

647-705-5250

Mon – Thu: 4:30PM – 9:00PM
Sat – Sun: 9:30AM – 4:45PM
Tue & Fri: Closed

JUNCTION

315 Osler St, Toronto, ON M6N 2Z4, Canada

647-871-7171

Mon – Wed: 4:30PM – 9:00PM
Fri: 4:30PM – 7:30PM
Sat – Sun: 9:30AM – 4:45PM
Thu: Closed

MARKHAM

205 Clayton Dr, Markham, ON L3R 7P3, Canada

905-477-2552

Tue – Fri: 4:00PM – 9:00PM
Sat – Sun: 9:00AM – 3:30AM
Mon: Closed

NORTH YORK

7026 Bathurst St, Thornhill, ON L4J 8K3, Canada

905-669-3609

Mon – Wed: 4:30PM – 9:00PM
Sun:
9:30AM – 2:30PM
Thu – Sat: Closed

THORNHILL

8403 Yonge St, Thornhill, ON L3T 6R2, Canada

905-731-3601

Mon – Fri: 4:00PM – 9:00PM
Sat – Sun: 9:00AM – 3:30PM

WOODBRIDGE

643 Chrislea Rd #2, Woodbridge, ON 
L4L 8A3, Canada

905-850-9917

Mon – Fri: 4:00PM – 8:30PM
Sat : 9:30AM – 5:00PM
Sun: 9:30AM – 2:00PM

Felix’s Swim Schools is a leading swimming facility proudly serving Toronto, Vaughan, Richmond Hill, Concord, York, Scarborough, East York, and Etobicoke.