We get it. Swim lessons can feel like a big investment, especially when you are comparing prices online and thinking, “But isn’t it just splashing around in a pool for 45 minutes?”
Not quite.
At Well Cares Swimming, we believe in transparency. So let’s break it down: what are you actually paying for when you sign up for swim lessons? And why is one school EUR 12 per lesson, while another is EUR 35 or even more? It’s not about luxury towels or fancy floaties. It’s about what really matters.
- Qualified instructors who actually care
Spoiler: great swim instructors don’t grow on trees. They are trained professionals who understand not just swimming technique, but child psychology, adult fear patterns, trauma responses, and how to adapt to every personality in the water. Our team at Well Cares Swimming is made up of certified, experienced instructors who genuinely love what they do. We don’t just teach swimming; we coach, encourage, reassure, and celebrate every small step. That emotional labour? It’s priceless.
- Small groups = Big impact
Sure, a class of 15 is cheaper to run than a class of 4. But which one would you want yourself or your child with special needs in? We keep our group sizes as small as possible. That means more individual attention, safer environments, faster progress, and less waiting on the wall while someone else tries to find their goggles. Smaller groups cost more to run but they are worth every cent.
- Pool rental isn’t exactly a bargain
Fun fact: swimming pools aren’t just places where people splash around and pretend to be mermaids, they are expensive to maintain. Here’s what goes into it:
– Heating: Keeping the water warm enough for swimming isn’t cheap. Oil and energy prices have gone up, and maintaining that perfect swimming temperature of 30°-33° can cost hundreds of euros each month. That’s a lot of energy just to keep you comfortable while you perfect your frontcrawl.
– Cleaning: We all love a clean pool, right? Well, cleaning and maintaining the pool costs, too. This includes cleaning the water, scrubbing the edges, and making sure everything is sparkling. The price tag on that? Anywhere from EUR 300 to EUR 1.000 a month. The pool’s not going to clean itself (if only).
– Water safety and maintenance: Keeping the water safe for swimmers isn’t as simple as filling it up and hoping for the best. Chemicals like chlorine and regular water quality checks are necessary to make sure nothing too surprising grows in there. Safety is a must and so is the budget to maintain it. At Well Cares Swimming, we use professional, high-quality facilities. You feel it the moment you walk in and even more so when you jump in (we promise, no weird smells).
- Behind-the-scenes support
The lesson itself is just the tip of the iceberg. The real magic happens behind the scenes:
– Safety insurances and procedures: There’s a lot of paperwork, insurance, and safety protocols behind every swim lesson. And while it’s all crucial, it does cost. It’s all about making sure that, when you jump in the pool, you are covered from every angle.
– Certifications and ongoing training: Our instructors don’t just get certified and call it a day. They keep their training up to date with first-aid courses, new swim techniques, and the latest safety procedures. This helps us deliver the best experience for you, but it’s not free!
– Scheduling and administration: Organizing lessons, answering questions, making sure every swimmer has the right schedule requires a lot of time.
– Government tax (VAT)
On top of all the above costs, there is also a 9% VAT (Value Added Tax) that the government charges on swim lessons in the Netherlands. This tax is added to the overall price of each lesson.
When you pay for a lesson, you are not just paying for 45 minutes of water time. You are paying for everything that ensures your lesson is top-notch, safe, and effective.
You are not just buying lessons, you are investing in lifesaving skill
Swimming isn’t an extracurricular. It’s a lifesaving skill. One that builds physical strength, emotional resilience, and long-term confidence. A good swim school doesn’t just teach floating; it teaches courage, discipline, and independence. That kind of education is worth more than the cost of a pizza night (even if the pizza has extra toppings).
So… is it worth it? Absolutely. But only if you are choosing a swim school that truly values what’s behind the price. At Well Cares Swimming, we don’t cut corners. We don’t rush learners. And we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all lessons. What we offer is personal, powerful and caring.
Ready to see the value for yourself?
Join us in the pool and experience swim lessons that go deeper than just water. Book a free try out session at Well Cares Swimming where every euro supports your growth, your safety, and your journey.