Swim Programs

Frequently Asked Questions - Swim Programs Transition

• Why is the Town transitioning to now offering Lifesaving Society swim programs?

  The Canadian Red Cross Learn to Swim programs offered by the Town will be retired at the end of 2022 as we transition to Lifesaving Society of BC certifications.  
  
  The Canadian Red Cross is shifting its priorities from its learn to swim programs to focusing on other areas such as disaster and pandemic response, opioid harm reduction and caregiving for seniors. 
  
  Parks, Recreation and Culture staff has been working with the Lifesaving Society of BC for the past 6 months to ensure a smooth transition, including dedicated staff training.
  
  Additionally, the Town is offering Lifesaving instructor training later in November for members of the public interested in a career in aquatics

• What is the benefit of the Lifesaving Society swim programs?

  The Lifesaving Society is a respected, accomplished organization that has long shared the passion to reduce drowning and aquatic-related injuries.
  
  Swim for Life leads seamlessly into the Lifesaving Society’s lifesaving and lifeguard training programs – all of which are supported by a comprehensive leadership training system that would help support the Towns efforts to restore staffing levels in the swimming pool.

• When is this change happening?

  The transition from Red Cross to Lifesaving Society swimming lessons will take place starting in January 2023. 
  
  
  

• How do I know what level to enroll my child in?

  Please refer to the lesson conversion chart to discover your child’s new swimming lesson level. 

• Where can I sign my child up for swim lessons?

  Parks, Recreation & Culture's latest swim lesson offerings will be published in the Winter 2023 Activity Guide. Watch the Programs section of our website for the new Guide. 
  
  You can enroll your child in swim lessons by visiting RecCowichan or calling the Frank Jameson Community Centre Reception Desk - 250.245.6424.  

• How can I be hired as a Lifesaving Society swim instructor for the Town?

  Come take the first step in joining our team of amazing aquatics instructors. 
  
  We're hosting a Lifesaving Swim for Life and Lifesaving Instructor Combo Course on November 18-20 and November 25-27. 
  
  Completion of this training opportunity will qualify you to teach all the Lifesaving Society's Swim for Life levels, Canadian Swim Patrol, Swim to Survive, Junior Lifeguard Club, Bronze Medal Family and more.
  
  Visit the Town's Employment Opportunities page for a list of current job postings.