Kids & Youth Swim
Notice: Pool Closure September 2 to September 7
The pool will be closed from Tuesday, September 2 to Sunday, September 7 for routine cleaning and maintenance. Aquafit, Lane Swim, and Leisure Swim are all cancelled for that period.
The pool and all programming will re-open on September 8. We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your understanding.
A fun and safe environment for your child to gain confidence, learn water safety, and develop basic swimming skills
Gain Confidence, Learn Water Safety, and Develop Swimming Skills
Learning to swim lasts a lifetime. Our programs provide a safe environment for children and encourage everyone to have fun and be comfortable in the water.
Our Lifesaving Society swimming lessons develop great swimmers. All instructors are certified by the Lifesaving Society and High-Five™ trained.
Programs for Kids & Youth
Settlement Swim Program Levels
We have developed our very own Settlement Swim Program. Please see below for the swim level conversion between our new Settlement Swim Program and other swim programs.
Swim Meet on November 25th
University Settlement will be hosting a swim meet with our community partners on Saturday, November 25th from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm! All swimmers in our Sharks Swim Team are invited to compete.
If you wish to participate or volunteer at the event, please contact aquatics@universitysettlement.ca.
Baby Sharks (Lessons for Ages 0 to 3)
Dive into a world of water wonders with our Baby Sharks swimming lessons! Join us for a blend of safety and fun as you and your little one explore the aquatic realm through catchy songs and exciting games. From playful entries and magical floats to toe-tapping kicks, each session is a splash of joy.
One caregiver per participant must always participate in the water.
Prerequisites: None
Fall 2025: Weekly Lessons (September 15 to November 30)
- Saturdays, 11:00 am to 11:30 am
- Sundays, 11:00 am to 11:30 am
*No lessons on holidays: October 11 to 13 (Thanksgiving Weekend) and October 31 (Halloween)
Capacity
Group lesson (8 per class)
Lesson Fees
$22.50 per class
Fall Registration Opens August 8
If you have any questions, please contact the Recreation Supervisor at aquatics@universitysettlement.ca, or call 416‑598‑3444 ext. 229.
Preschool Pups (Lessons for Ages 3 to 5)
This is the first opportunity for a child to participate in a swim program without their guardian. It may also be their first swimming experience. Students will learn skills such as floats, glides, kicks, surface support and more!
Preschool Pups Level 1
In Preschool Pups 1, your child will be introduced to fundamental swimming skills to get them more familiar with the water, such as: entering and exiting the water, bubbles and bobs, and assisted floats, glides, and kicking. No prerequisites.
Fall 2025: Weekly Lessons (September 15 to November 30)
- Fridays, 5:00 pm to 5:30 pm
- Saturdays, 10:00 am to 10:30 am
- Sundays, 11:30 am to 12:00 pm
*No lessons on holidays: October 11 to 13 (Thanksgiving Weekend) and October 31 (Halloween)
Lesson Fees
$22.50 per class
Fall Registration Opens August 8
If you have any questions, please contact the Recreation Supervisor at aquatics@universitysettlement.ca, or call 416‑598‑3444 ext. 229.
Preschool Pups Level 2
In Preschool Pups 2, your child will practice swim skills to encourage independence in the water, such as: unassisted floats, glides, kicks, and treading, and an introduction to front and back swim.
Prerequisite
Successful completion or skill ability equal to Preschool Pups 1.
Fall 2025: Weekly Lessons (September 15 to November 30)
- Mondays, 4:30 pm to 5:00 pm
- Saturdays, 11:30 am to 12:00 pm
- Sundays, 12:00 pm to 12:30 pm
*No lessons on holidays: October 11 to 13 (Thanksgiving Weekend) and October 31 (Halloween)
Lesson Fees
$22.50 per class
Fall Registration Opens August 8
If you have any questions, please contact the Recreation Supervisor at aquatics@universitysettlement.ca, or call 416‑598‑3444 ext. 229.
Preschool Pups Level 3
In Preschool Pups 3, your child will practice swim skills to improve their endurance and technique, such as: development of front swim, back swim, and treading, and an introduction to front crawl and deep water.
Prerequisite
Successful completion or skill ability equal to Preschool Pups 2.
Fall 2025: Weekly Lessons (September 15 to November 30)
- Mondays, 5:00 pm to 5:30 pm
- Saturdays, 11:00 am to 11:30 am
- Sundays, 11:30 am to 12:00 pm
*No lessons on holidays: October 11 to 13 (Thanksgiving Weekend) and October 31 (Halloween)
Lesson Fees
$22.50 per class
Fall Registration Opens August 8
If you have any questions, please contact the Recreation Supervisor at aquatics@universitysettlement.ca, or call 416‑598‑3444 ext. 229.
Sharks (Lessons for Ages 5 to 13)
Sharks Level 1
In our beginner level, swimmers develop foundational skills like safe entries, pool rule awareness, blowing bubbles, assisted bobs, and mastering assisted floats and glides. From confident front and back kicks, object recovery, and treading with a PFD to the thrill of jumping into shallow waters with assistance – this level sets the stage for a lifetime of aquatic enjoyment!
Prerequisites
None
Class Capacity
Group lesson (4 per class)
Fall 2025: Weekly Lessons (September 15 to November 30)
- Mondays, 4:30 pm to 5:00 pm
- Saturdays, 10:30 am to 11:00 am
- Sundays, 1:00 pm to 1:30 pm
*No lessons on holidays: October 11 to 13 (Thanksgiving Weekend) and October 31 (Halloween)
Lesson Fees
$22.50 per class
Fall Registration Opens August 8
If you have any questions, please contact the Recreation Supervisor at aquatics@universitysettlement.ca, or call 416‑598‑3444 ext. 229.
Sharks Level 2
Swimmers refine fundamental skills, achieving proficiency in unassisted floats, glides, and kicks. This level includes treading for 15 seconds and a 5m distance swim. Beyond skill mastery, participants are introduced to side glides and front crawl arms, complemented by a heightened emphasis on water safety principles, such as calling for help and emergency services.
Prerequisites
Successful completion or skill ability equal to Sharks Level 1 or Preschool Pups 2
Class Capacity
Group lesson (4 per class)
Fall 2025: Weekly Lessons (September 15 to November 30)
- Mondays, 5:00 pm to 5:30 pm
- Tuesdays, 5:30 pm to 6:00 pm
- Wednesdays, 5:30 pm to 6:00 pm
- Saturdays, 11:30 am to 12:00 pm
- Sundays, 10:30 am to 11:00 am
*No lessons on holidays: October 11 to 13 (Thanksgiving Weekend) and October 31 (Halloween)
Lesson Fees
$22.50 per class
Fall Registration Opens August 8
If you have any questions, please contact the Recreation Supervisor at aquatics@universitysettlement.ca, or call 416‑598‑3444 ext. 229.
Sharks Level 3
Swimmers learn safety equipment protocols and navigate through dynamic challenges like a 3m underwater object recovery and daring jumps into deep water. This level introduces intricate skills, including sitting dives, sculling techniques, back crawl arms, and a 30-second treading milestone. Swimmers continue to develop technique and endurance with their kicking, and complete 10m of front crawl.
Prerequisites
Successful completion or skill ability equal to Sharks Level 2 or Preschool Pups 3.
Class Capacity
Group lesson (4 per class)
Fall 2025: Weekly Lessons (September 15 to November 30)
- Mondays, 5:30 pm to 6:00 pm
- Wednesdays, 5:30 pm to 6:00 pm
- Thursdays, 5:30 pm to 6:00 pm
- Saturdays, 10:00 am to 10:30 am
- Sundays, 11:00 am to 11:30 am
*No lessons on holidays: October 11 to 13 (Thanksgiving Weekend) and October 31 (Halloween)
Lesson Fees
$22.50 per class
Fall Registration Opens August 8
If you have any questions, please contact the Recreation Supervisor at aquatics@universitysettlement.ca, or call 416‑598‑3444 ext. 229.
Sharks Level 4
Swimmers learn hazard awareness and recover objects in a 5m underwater swim. Participants build confidence with kneeling dives and a forward somersault. They are introduced to eggbeater and whip kick, which assists them in treading for 60 seconds. Swimmers build their endurance, completing 15m of front crawl and back crawl, and cap it off with a 25m distance swim.
Prerequisites
Successful completion or skill ability equal to Sharks Level 3.
Class Capacity
Group lesson (4 per class)
Fall 2025: Weekly Lessons (September 15 to November 30)
- Mondays, 4:30 pm to 5:00 pm
- Fridays, 5:30 pm to 6:00 pm
- Saturdays, 11:30 am to 12:00 pm
- Sundays, 10:30 am to 11:00 am
*No lessons on holidays: October 11 to 13 (Thanksgiving Weekend) and October 31 (Halloween)
Lesson Fees
$22.50 per class
Fall Registration Opens August 8
If you have any questions, please contact the Recreation Supervisor at aquatics@universitysettlement.ca, or call 416‑598‑3444 ext. 229.
Sharks Level 5
Sharks 5 dives into advanced water safety and skills. Swimmers tackle boat safety and PFD usage, execute a 3m underwater swim in deep water, and tread for 90 seconds. With a standing dive and disorienting entry into deep water, they refine entries. They continue to develop eggbeater and complete 15m of whip kick on both their front and back (with an aid). Elementary backstroke is introduced, and swimmers conquer 25m front crawl and back crawl. The level includes a Swim to Survive challenge and a 75m distance swim, showcasing water survival skills and endurance.
Prerequisites
Successful completion or skill ability equal to Sharks Level 4.
Class Capacity
Group lesson (4 per class)
Fall 2025: Weekly Lessons (September 15 to November 30)
- Mondays, 5:30 pm to 6:00 pm
- Wednesdays, 7:00 pm to 7:30 pm
- Saturdays, 10:00 am to 10:30 am
- Sundays, 12:30 pm to 1:00 pm
*No lessons on holidays: October 11 to 13 (Thanksgiving Weekend) and October 31 (Halloween)
Lesson Fees
$22.50 per class
Fall Registration Opens August 8
If you have any questions, please contact the Recreation Supervisor at aquatics@universitysettlement.ca, or call 416‑598‑3444 ext. 229.
Sharks Level 6
Sharks 6 introduces advanced aquatic skills with a focus on cold water safety. Participants master head-first surface dives, foot-first surface dives, and stride jumps, preparing them with fundamental skills for lifesaving techniques. With sculling, treading, and 60 seconds of eggbeater, swimmers enhance their control. They are introduced to breaststroke arms and continue to develop whip kick. Proficiency is highlighted in 50m front crawl, back crawl, and 25m elementary back stroke. Sharks 6 concludes with a 150m distance swim, emphasizing endurance and advanced swimming techniques.
Prerequisites
Successful completion or skill ability equal to Sharks Level 5.
Class Capacity
Group lesson (6 per class)
Fall 2025: Weekly Lessons (September 15 to November 30)
- Wednesdays, 5:30 pm to 6:00 pm
- Thursdays, 5:30 pm to 6:00 pm
- Saturdays, 12:30 pm to 1:00 pm
- Sundays, 12:00 pm to 12:30 pm
*No lessons on holidays: October 11 to 13 (Thanksgiving Weekend) and October 31 (Halloween)
Lesson Fees
$22.50 per class
Fall Registration Opens August 8
If you have any questions, please contact the Recreation Supervisor at aquatics@universitysettlement.ca, or call 416‑598‑3444 ext. 229.
Sharks Level 7/8
Sharks Level 7
Sharks 7 participants will dive deep into the world of lifesaving principles and advanced aquatic skills. From mastering the reverse & ready technique to executing precise stride jumps and surface dives, swimmers will develop the agility, endurance, and confidence needed to navigate any aquatic environment. With a focus on refining stroke techniques such as 15m head-up front crawl, 100m front crawl, 100m back crawl, 75m elementary backstroke, and 50m breaststroke, swimmers will enhance their proficiency in various swimming styles. The curriculum also includes challenging exercises like treading water for 3 minutes and performing eggbeater kicks with a 10 lb brick, strengthening endurance. Participants will put their skills to the test with interval training and a 200m distance swim.
Sharks Level 8
This is the final level of the Sharks swim program, where participants refine their skills to become proficient and confident swimmers capable of handling various aquatic challenges. Throughout this advanced course, emphasis is placed on mastering the rescue process, including the ladder approach and the use of throwing aids for effective rescue operations. Building on previous levels, swimmers further strengthen their technique through activities such as treading water for 4 minutes and mastering lifesaving kicks like whip kick and eggbeater for 25m. Stroke refinement continues with 25m head-up front crawl, 150m front crawl, 150m back crawl, and 100m breaststroke, culminating in a 400m swim. Participants emerge from this final level prepared for further lifesaving training such as Bronze Star or Bronze Medallion.
Prerequisites
Successful completion or skill ability equal to Sharks Level 6 or Sharks Level 7.
Class Capacity
Group lesson (6 per class)
Fall 2025: Weekly Lessons (September 15 to November 30)
- Mondays, 5:00 pm to 5:45 pm
- Tuesdays, 5:30 pm to 6:15 pm
- Thursdays, 5:30 pm to 6:15 pm
- Sundays, 1:00 pm to 1:45 pm
*No lessons on holidays: October 11 to 13 (Thanksgiving Weekend) and October 31 (Halloween)
Lesson Fees
$27.50 per class
Fall Registration Opens August 8
If you have any questions, please contact the Recreation Supervisor at aquatics@universitysettlement.ca, or call 416‑598‑3444 ext. 229.
Private Lessons
Private Lessons are one-on-one swim instruction with a Lifesaving Society Certified instructor. The great thing about Private lessons is that you can learn at your pace and you can communicate your personal swimming goals with the instructor.
Private lessons are available for all age groups.
Capacity
1 person
Fall 2025: Weekly Lessons (September 15 to November 30)
- Lesson Duration: 30 minutes or 45 minutes (Please note: 45-minute lessons are recommended for Sharks Level 5 and higher)
- Schedule: Lessons will be available in a weekly format (lessons are once per week).
*No lessons on holidays: October 11 to 13 (Thanksgiving Weekend) and October 31 (Halloween)
Private Lesson Fees
- 30-Minute Lesson: $38.50 per class
- 45-Minute Lesson: $49.50 per class
Fall Registration Opens August 8
If you have any questions, please contact the Recreation Supervisor at aquatics@universitysettlement.ca, or call 416‑598‑3444 ext. 229.
Settlement Sharks Swim Team (Ages 7 to 17)
Settlement Sharks competitive swim team is for those who want to improve their swimming strokes. The entire program is focused on the competitive practice of swimming as fast as possible. This program is special compared to the Sharks Program because of the opportunities to challenge and develop yourself along with our friendly competitors from other centres.
This program has three goals that we try to achieve at every practice and meet: stroke improvement, fun, and competition!
All swim meets are optional. Swim meets may require travel to a different pool to compete. Swimmers must be able to complete at least 2 lengths of the pool non-stop. Open for 7 to 17 years old, recommended completion of Sharks Level 6 or higher.
Capacity
24 people
Fall 2025: Weekly Lessons (September 15 to November 30)
- Mondays, 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm
- Thursdays, 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm
*No practice on holidays: October 11 to 13 (Thanksgiving Weekend) and October 31 (Halloween)
Fees
- Mondays only: $112.50
- Thursdays only: $125
- Mondays AND Thursdays: $200
- Settlement Sharks Swim Cap: $10 (Purchase at Front Desk)
*Entry fees for competitions not included
Fall Registration Opens August 8
If you have any questions, please contact the Recreation Supervisor at aquatics@universitysettlement.ca, or call 416‑598‑3444 ext. 229.
Agency Membership Fees: In addition to program fees, an annual Agency Membership ($25 plus HST per year) is required for all individuals participating in swim lessons and courses at University Settlement.
Leisure Swim Programs
New! Parent and Tot Swim (Ages 0 to 6)
Make a splash with your little one this August in our Parent and Tot Swim program — a playful, low-pressure introduction to the water for children ages 0 to 6, accompanied by a parent or caregiver. Held in a warm, welcoming environment, this instructor-led swim is designed to foster early water confidence, motor skill development, and meaningful caregiver-child bonding through fun activities like floating, gentle kicking, songs, and water games.
This pilot program will replace Sunday Leisure Swim on August 10, 17, and 24. This is a trial program and is not guaranteed to continue in the fall — don’t miss your chance to enjoy quality time in the water while helping your child build lifelong water safety skills.
Important Notes
- Each child must be accompanied in the water by an adult (up to 2 adults per child).
- Each adult may supervise up to 2 children.
- A 1:1 child-to-adult ratio does not require lifejackets. If supervising 2 children, both must wear lifejackets.
Capacity
15 children per session
Schedule
Sundays (August 10, 17, 24)
2:00 pm to 3:15 pm
Participation Fees
FREE!
(Please note: An active University Settlement Agency membership is required. Adults must bring their own Agency Membership Card but do not need to be the primary account holder)
Registration is Required
If you have any questions, please contact the Recreation Supervisor at aquatics@universitysettlement.ca, or call 416‑598‑3444 ext. 229.
All Ages Leisure Swim
Come and enjoy the pool. Have fun and get comfortable in the water. Our Leisure Swims are open to all ages – adults, seniors, kids, and youth. Everyone in the pool!
- Shallow and deep areas separated
- Proper supervision ratios
- Age restrictions for swimming alone
- Swim tests for deep-end access apply
Capacity
30 people
Schedule
- Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday: 10:00 am to 11:00 am
- Friday: 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm
- Saturday: 2:00 pm to 3:15 pm
Packages and Fees
- Individual Pass Package ($20 for 10 Leisure Swim visits): Applicable to one adult (18 years and up)
- Family Pass Package ($50 for 10 Leisure Swim visits): Applicable to one adult (18 years and up) and four dependants (under 18 years) linked to your account
- Refund Policy: Packages are non-refundable.
Additional Leisure Swim Information
- Request Passes at the Front Desk: To attend Leisure Swim, you will need to have your membership card scanned at the front desk. When checking in, please specify that you are attending Leisure Swim, to enable the front desk staff issue swim passes for you and any dependents you bring. These passes must be presented to the lifeguard on duty to gain entry to the pool. A separate swim pass is required for each individual (including dependents) swimming during Leisure Swim. You will not be allowed to swim without presenting a valid swim pass to the lifeguard.
- Admittance Policy: Child(ren) that are 9 years and under must be accompanied by a guardian that is 14 years and older. The guardian must remain within arms reach of the child(ren) at all times.
- Passes are limited: Passes will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Come and enjoy the pool. Have fun and get comfortable in the water. Our Leisure Swims are open to all ages – adults, seniors, kids, and youth. Everyone in the pool!
- Shallow and deep areas separated
- Proper supervision ratios
- Age restrictions for swimming alone
- Swim tests for deep-end access apply
Family Swim
Don’t forget to check out our Family Swim programs!
The Value of Community Support: A Story of Resilience and Growth
Bogdan’s story begins far from Toronto—in Ukraine, where he was forced to leave his home due to the devastating effects of war. Arriving in a new country with uncertainty in his heart, he soon found a place that would change everything: University Settlement.
“I’ll never forget how University Settlement gave me a chance when I had very little experience,” Bogdan recalls. “They saw potential in me—and that’s how I began to grow.”
That first opportunity turned into a life-changing journey. Bogdan became a certified lifeguard, then a swim team coach, where he discovered his passion for mentoring youth. His role expanded to include being an after-school program leader, allowing him to develop strong leadership skills, build confidence, and make meaningful connections with children and families in the community.
“University Settlement became more than a workplace—it became a place of growth, belonging, and purpose,” Bogdan shares. “Here, I found not only my first job, but my voice and my future.”
Through every role, Bogdan has given back with heart, helping young people feel supported and inspired—just as he once was. For him, University Settlement represents opportunity, resilience, and the incredible power of community.
“I will always remember that this place gave me a second chance at life—and a place where I could become the best version of myself.”
– Bogdan Molchanov
Help Us Make A Difference
When you give to University Settlement, you make it possible for us to provide more aquatics programs for community members like Bogdan.
Your contribution enriches the entire community. Consider a monthly donation today to leave a lasting impact.
Proudly HIGH FIVE™ Accredited
HIGH FIVE™ is Canada’s only comprehensive quality standard for children’s programs. Based on a holistic approach to healthy child development, it’s quality framework addresses Staff Training and Development, Program Assessments, Policies/Procedures, and Awareness.