Frequently asked questions about VacSwim

Can I make a change to my childs enrolment details?

It may be possible to change your enrolment online or by contacting VacSwim before enrolments close for the respective program.

After the close of enrolments, stage changes may be made at the centre during the advertised late enrolment times. Contact the VacSwim office for further information or check times in the programs and locations section.

What time are the classes?

Classes will be conducted between the times indicated alongside each centre in the programs and locations section. While every effort will be made to meet requests, specific class times cannot be guaranteed. Refunds are not granted for ‘unsuitable class times’.

Will my child be in a class with other students at the same level?

Children will be enrolled according to their ‘going for’ stage and at times it may be necessary to combine groups of more than one level in the one class. Care will be taken to ensure children are taught according to their stage and ability level. To help choose your childs stage visit the stages and awards section.

What do I do if the centre I am enrolled in is cancelled?

Classes will be offered at metropolitan and country centres listed in the program and locations section.  Where low enrolment numbers, a lack of suitably qualified staff or venue closure warrant the cancellation of a venue, you will be scheduled a place at your second preference.

What should I do if my child has a medical condition or disability?

If enrolling online;

After enrolling online please phone the VacSwim office on 9345 4007 quoting your Online ID number to ensure suitable arrangements are in place for your child.

If enrolling by post please complete the enrolment form carefully, including all information on any condition that may affect safe participation in VacSwim.

Where a child has been observed or is otherwise known to be subject to any condition which may affect his/her safety, the child will not be permitted to swim unless a medical certificate is produced by the child’s parents stating that it is safe to do so, or supervision is arranged making it safe for the child to do so. Medical advice has been received that states that children suffering from diabetes will require suitable supervision, a medical certificate is not required.

Can I request a refund or transfer to another program?

In exceptional circumstances (eg sudden change in holiday arrangements or prolonged inclement weather at a surf/beach centre) children may transfer to another class within the same program. It may also be possible to transfer to another program, however children cannot enrol in one week of each program or transfer to another program having completed more than three lessons in an earlier program.

Can I request a refund?

A refund request:

• must be in writing and include the original enrolment notification form (if applicable)
• will be considered on its merit
• will not be considered for ‘unsuitable class times’. Please take care when selecting a centre and consider both your child’s needs and your time availability
• will not be considered when an applicant has completed more than three lessons.

Requests received before the start of the particular program will be refunded the full enrolment fee. After the start of the particular program, applicants for a general refund must have completed no more than three lessons and the refund will be limited to 50 per cent of the enrolment fee.

Refunds for medical reasons will be considered separately. A medical certificate must be provided.

No requests for refunds will be considered after Friday 3 February 2012.

Will my child receive a certificate?

VacSwim cannot guarantee a child will achieve an entire stage as a result of participating in the program. Parents should be aware that children progress at different rates and need to practise skills.

Children in stages 1 to 9 will receive a progress report–The Swimming and Water/Surf Safety Continuum–indicating those skills achieved and if a stage has been passed. Children successful in stages 10 to 16 will receive a separate calm water/ pool or surf/beach certificate. Award fees apply to some stages from 10 to 16 at pool centres.

Is my childs progress reviewed?

Brief meetings will be held on the Friday of the first week of class at all centres to report on swimmer progress. Instructors will be available to meet parent/carers. Please check at the centre during the first week of classes for meeting times.

What is the responsibility of the swimming instructor?

VacSwim instructors are responsible only for those children directly involved in VacSwim while the lesson is being conducted.

What is the parent/carers responsibility while my child is at the centre?

Most swimming centres have policies requiring children to be supervised at all times. Parents/carers should be in attendance to ensure that appropriate supervision is provided at all times.

Is my child encouraged to be sun smart?

VacSwim encourages all children to be sun smart:

• slip on protective clothing
• slop on SPF 30+ sunscreen
• slap on a hat
• seek shade
• slide on some sunglasses.