Swim into summer: 2,800 additional swimming lesson spots offered as programming nears pre-pandemic levels

We’re pleased to announce that over 2,800 additional summer swimming lesson spots will be available for registration across Southland Leisure Centre, Village Square Leisure Centre and Glenmore Aquatic Centre.

Parents, caregivers and anyone looking to register for these additional summer swimming lessons can do so as of 6 a.m. on Thursday, June 6 at calgary.ca/register.

We continue our efforts to offer more programming and anticipate that the number of City-run swimming lessons will soon match the levels offered before 2020, with the expectation of fully reaching these service levels in 2025.

“We recognize the pandemic created a significant backlog of swimming lessons and we’ve seen unprecedented demand in the past couple years,” says Michelle Tait, Leader, Recreation & Social Programs. “We’re finally starting to catch up.”

Swimming is not just a recreational activity — it is a critical life-saving skill. It empowers individuals with the confidence to safely engage in water activities and sports throughout their lives. While water-related fatalities occur year-round, the majority happen during the warmest months.

“Given that drowning remains one of the leading causes of accidental death, we anticipate that these supplementary lessons will significantly contribute to Calgarians acquiring this essential life-saving skill as summer approaches,” adds Michelle.

Beyond swimming lessons, The City of Calgary provides year-round recreation programs for all ages. We also offer certifications for Bronze Medallion, Bronze Cross, National Lifeguard, Lifesaving/Swim for Life® Instructor and Intermediate First Aid.

Calgarians who are interested in working as a lifeguard or swim instructor with The City can apply at calgary.ca/careers/swim-instructors.  

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