Diploma system

Leiden swimschool lessons are structured around the Dutch ABC Diploma curriculum. The A diploma proves that your child has basic survival skills and are considered a safe and responsible swimmer. The B diploma proves that your child have a certain level of endurance, are a much more independent swimmer and can assist in rescuing people in trouble. The C diploma proves that your child is prepared for all kinds of situations in the water and are an independent, confident swimmer.

Leiden swimschool wants all children to have their C diploma! We believe that it is important that everyone is comfortable in the water and knows how to deal with unexpected situations like falling into canals or off boats. It is also important to be able to help other people who may fall into canals! Because accidents do happen, all three diploma levels require your child to swim while wearing clothes – from a t-shirt, shorts and shoes for the A diploma to wearing a thick long sleeved t-shirt, trousers and shoes for the C diploma. We strongly suggest bringing a plastic bag for the wet stuff!

Our tailored lessons will definitely get your child through each level. Each lesson involves working on the four main strokes and practicing safety and survival skills. Our instructors teach the skills needed and will practice the exam requirements so that your child is comfortable and confident to take them. Getting their diploma is fun and gives a great sense of achievement.

For more information about what each lesson entails, what is involved in obtaining these diplomas, what to bring, and why the diplomas are important, please contact us. We love talking about swimming!

 Download Requirements ABC ENVOZ Survival diplomas

Costs

There are no additional costs for taking the ABC Diplomas. The skills required are practiced during the regular classes along with improving your swimming strokes. Utrecht swimschool does not charge separately for the diploma preparation because we feel strongly that everyone should become competent, comfortable and confident swimmers. The exam itself will be charged as a normal lesson and added to your monthly bill. All you need to do is bring your fans to cheer you on and help make it fun!

Clothing

It is important to practice swimming when clothed. Should your child fall into the water by accident, they will probably be fully clothed. Wet clothing absorbs water and pushes out the air. They will feel like they are being dragged under water. Trying to keep afloat is very strenuous. Goggles may not be worn during this part of the exam.

Each level of diploma is more challenging than the previous one, both on the clothing to be worn as well as the distance to be swum.