★ 1

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★ 5

Had great swim class. Gage is the best. Felt like I made so much progress.

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★ 5

My instructor Amy at Potrero Hill site is awesome! She is super helpful at identifying things that can help me improve. I made a lot of progress in just two classes!

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★ 5

Alyssa has been absolutely outstanding as a kids’ swim instructor, especially when it comes to her customer service. From the very first interaction, she greeted us with a warm and welcoming attitude, making both the children and parents feel comfortable right away. She took the time to answer every question thoroughly and always made sure that we understood the schedule, safety rules, and progress updates. Her communication was clear, kind, and professional, which really set the tone for a positive experience.

Source: Google

★ 5

We have been coming for two years now. One kid started two years ago as a starfish and is now Shark 1. The other kid has just recently started as a Starfish. British swim school has many great instructors who are really patient with kids. Both of our kids took some time to get acclimated to the water and the required skills. We really appreciate how the instructors were able to deal with them! Shout out especially to Maddy and Eduardo, but also to many instructors whose name I am forgetting now. We also love the make-up class flexibility.

Compared to the Ocean Ave location, this location has more light, always parking (a nightmare at Ocean Ave), and slightly less background noise. This is our favorite BSS location in the Bay :) as in it’s the most convenient. The gym environment pool itself is just okay. Restrooms etc could be cleaner.

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★ 5

Great instructors — Braden and Maddy today across two different classes!

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★ 5

I have taken 4 classes so far and I already feel so comfortable in water. I’m enjoying learning from Braydon, he is extremely patient and has his own fun way of not only help remove any fear, but also keeping me engaged and still feel safe’! I’m very grateful

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★ 5

Appreciate the individualized attention to helping her progress in her level.

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★ 5

Great for lids

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★ 5

Maddy is incredible! She’s always so bubbly, patient and flexible with my toddler. My child was comfortable enough to jump straight into the water onto her arms during the first session. She sings and keeps the kiddo on her arms at all times to keep the kiddo safe in a playful way. We are so lucky to be working with her! Highly recommending getting on her schedule whenever possible!

Source: Google

★ 2

The teaching methods are good and a bit more organized compared to other places we have been to.
I chose this place bc it's indoor and my kid gets cold easily.
However, the kids are all FREEZING cold, and my kiddo often refuses to go - bc the water is NOT warm, AND the instructors insists on the kids sitting OUT OF THE WATER, with their lips all PURPLE and SHIVERING due to loss of heat to evaporation and convection, while they OPEN the door to the pool area to let the AC and the fan blow directly on the kids!!!

They said they MUST open the door, so that they can avoid the 'bleach fume' from ‘burning their eyes.' lo!!

I am looking for warmer facility that’s open on the weekend if anyone has recommendations. Thank you.

Source: Google

★ 1

BEWARE – Hidden Billing Rules, Rigid Policies, and a Crying Toddler 😡💔

We took our toddler to British Swim School in SF thinking we’d try ONE class and then decide. Instead, they charged us for three right away. From day one, our child cried his heart out the entire time.
We asked to be in the water with him to help — they said yes… then changed their minds the next class saying. Later, they told us to be completely out of sight. Each time, he screamed at the top of his lungs, and my heart broke watching it. 💔
Here’s the kicker: after those classes, when we wanted to cancel, they suddenly mentioned a “one-month cancellation notice” buried in their terms. I was NEVER shown this before paying. Classes are non-refundable and non-transferable, so we’re now paying for classes we will not use — and they’ll still charge us again.
This has been mentally exhausting — not just for my child, but for us as parents trying to protect our child’s well-being.
Also, I am surprised to see the progress report after every class: it says my child is learning whereas I can see from my own eyes that its not true AT ALL. Our toddler came away from these classes with increased fear and anxiety around swimming.

Parents, please learn from us: demand every policy in writing before you pay. And think twice before trusting a place that’s quick to charge but slow to listen to a child in distress.

Source: Google

★ 2

This school is probably fine for kid classes but as an adult not a great choice. Pool is small, and 2 instructors with kids sharing the lane so no way of swimming a full length, it might be ok if you are new to the water and trying to get comfortable but definitely not if you can swim already are looking to improve technique as you can’t really do drills, oh, and the facility is pretty disgusting. The instructors were nice.

Source: Google

★ 1

my children were in classes for over a year and it has been disappointing on so many levels. it's the slowest progress of learning i've ever seen, mostly due to swim time of 5 minutes for a 30 minute class. despite some of the teachers being great, the whole business model is focused on profit and not teaching children to swim. it's ok for those looking to get children to float, but not to learn to swim. the policies around make ups and cancellation are just terrible and the customer service falls on deaf ears. the class size for turtle onward are simply too large (6 kids swim one at a time!) and even the teachers agree. all around bad attitude among administrative people involved and very slow progress in the pool. stay away! the pools in SF are also gross!! i'd recommend any other swim school - la petite baleen, the bay club, anywhere else!

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

Such an easy app to monitor progress, cancel classes and schedule make ups. Great staff and instructors!

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★ 1

Not recommended at all. It’s unclean. Both my daughter and I got quite sick.

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★ 5

Our kids love Miss Maddy and take turns pretending to be her at bath time. Thank you for teaching our kids to be safe in the water!!

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★ 5

Phenomenal and extremely delighted with my experience with British Swim School. After my second lesson, I have been taught to float and now practicing backstroke. Huge shout to Liv and Alyssa for their help! Definitely recommending to friends in the area!

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

Learning how to further strengthen my swimming skills with the British Swim School has been persistently gratifying. Coach Anthony especially has made my learning experiences diverting and exhilarating . Not only does he have a very original, productive, and fun style of teaching but he also accommodates for my heart condition. He has been able to thoroughly teach me while also helping me pace myself in a healthy way.

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★ 5

Kathlyn is amazing. Always so helpful.

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★ 5

Great location.
Coach Kaitlyn was amazing with our 2.5 year old. She learnt so much in 30 mins.

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★ 5

The best swimming lessons my son has ever taken. He’s only 4 years old and he has been taking classes at British swimming school a few months, yet he can confidently swim. The teachers are professional, patient and they know how to teach. Also they are kind, warm and love kids. Thank you so much teacher Anthony, Kaitlyn, and Leah for putting a lot of efforts to help/ teach our son. <3

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

My daughter’s turtle two was the best class I’ve ever seen with the most progress. There was a teacher Anthony coaching in the water and another teacher Anthony standing and coaching by the benches. This needs to be a standard!!

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★ 5

The instructor was very patient and helpful. His instructions were clear and supportive. I was able to see my daughter’s improvement in this class. Thank you!

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★ 5

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★ 5

We’re having a great experience at BSS. Caitlin, head coach, and my daughter’s coach, Anthony, are excellent at communicating about what she’s doing well and what needs improvement. The emails (sent after every lesson) reinforce what the coach says and makes each goal really clear. Thanks!

Source: Google

★ 5

My nine month old daughter had a class with Maddy today. She was very sweet, had a calm nature, and offered a lot of positive reinforcement to the little ones. We will look forward to working with her more in the future!

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★ 5

Great instructos and so patient! Kaitlyn was very informative.

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★ 5

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★ 5

This is more of a review for a specific teacher than the overall experience. We have been attending the school for the last few months, and yesterday our daughter had her best lesson yet with Liv. All of the teachers are kind and patient, but Liv was able to push our daughter to learn while still doing it with patience and kindness and sensitivity. She was able to make some breakthroughs, and it really helped her feel more confident about the process. It was clear afterward that she felt the confidence that Liv helped her discover. Amazing work!

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★ 5

Excellent swim school. Teacher Ethan is the best

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★ 5

Great experience here with lots of support from the staff!

Been going here with my daughter for 2 years! Special shout out to Caitlin who has been extremely helpful as my girl worked through a lot of fear with submersions.

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★ 5

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★ 5

My daughter was feeling reluctant about swim class today and Maddi helped her positively get into the pool and have a great class! Thank you Maddi!!

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★ 5

Great staff with great patience and ability to work with kiddos at different swim levels

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★ 5

I have had several different swim instructors in different places but Leah is one of the best I have even worked with. She is very clear and precise about feedback which has helped me gain a lot from every single class

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★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Loving our experience with all the instructors at the B.S.S, with special shout-outs to star teachers Liv and Kettrick at Potrero! Our 5 year-old started just a couple months ago, still scared to get his head under water, and he's now jumping in the pool and confidently floating on his back independently - and about to 'graduate' to Turtle 1. All the instructors are fun and skilled at progressing the kids quickly. On the logistical end, we signed up for the 2x/month deal and as long as you schedule any absences in advance you can reschedule to a different day or location with no fee - very helpful for chaotic kid/life schedules. The only down side is the app for scheduling is SUPER clunky.

Source: Google

★ 1

I really wish I could write a positive review... finding adult swim classes is not easy, so your options are very limited. But, this place is massively overpriced for what you get. It's $250 per month for 4 classes that are 30 min long. On top of that, you only get 1/3 to 1/2 of one lane as the school doesn't have access to the whole pool. And, you share the lesson with 2-3 other people. How are you supposed to practice a stroke if you have to turn around at half a lane. Sometimes the school even does 3 classes... in one lane. Also, the lessons are hit or miss. Some instructors are trying to look at your stroke and give feedback. Others are just telling you that water is wet. TLDR: don't go here. You won't learn anything as an adult standing in 3 feet of water with 4 people and only half the lane available.

Source: Google

★ 5

Teacher Liv is so good!

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★ 4

Great teachers, horrible horrible gym.
The teachers are lovely and super attentive. The program is good and has been teaching my daughter to swim reliably. Going weeknights is best because you can often get 1:1 classes! Shout out to Liv for being a great teacher.
Four stars because if you ever have to go to the locker room you’ll see tenderloin levels of depravity. The bathrooms are disgusting and unmaintained consistently. Front desk staff is responsible for cleaning it and they really really don’t want to (and I can’t blame them!). The gym needs dedicated janitorial staff urgently. I reviewed the gym too, but BSS needs to pressure 24h Fitness to get their act together.

Source: Google

★ 4

We’ve been going for a good while. The facility is not the best, but the program and most teachers are good and the repetition has helped our child learn to swim well. The older classes are a bit tight with 4 kids in each class, so don’t expect them to get a lot of water time unless someone is absent, but seeing the others is helpful to learn. Special shout out to teacher Liv, who’s helped a ton in learning actual strokes.

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★ 5

They are great with our kids, especially Liv who is perfect with our three year old!!!!

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★ 1

Avoid at all costs. Predatory and manipulative sales team that conceals charges. On top of that they have extremely inflexible policies that lock you into repeat charges without warning or recourse.

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★ 5

I really enjoy the effort that the British swim school instructors put into making the classes engaging and fun. My child was having a bad day in our tadpole class today we were only supposed to be with instructor Brendan however they sent over instructor Chako who wasn’t busy to help make the class extra special and fun. Both of them did a great job keeping the class exciting and engaging. Thank you British swim school for all the help you guys always provide.

Source: Google

★ 5

I absolutely love how fun and engaging the swim instructors are. They know how to work with all the feelings the kids may be feeling. They are absolutely amazing!!

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

I enjoy the swim's school compassion and adequacy with their teachings as well as the professionalism of the staff.

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★ 5

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★ 1

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★ 1

They sign up you for 4 classes on a rolling basis, so that any time you want to stop going, it'll cost you $250 in unused classes.

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★ 4

Flexible schedule and nice instructors

Source: Google

★ 1

My experience with British Swim School has been profoundly disappointing. Despite my son's advanced swimming skills, the instructors failed to teach him anything new or even provide a proper assessment to adjust his level. The entire class is only 30 minutes long, and with four students taking turns in the water, my son spent approximately 20 minutes simply sitting on the floor, watching others. During the remaining five minutes designated as "free time," he was allowed to play with toys, which did nothing to further his swimming abilities.

What's even more frustrating is that my son, who is well-versed in breaststroke, freestyle, and floating, was still forced to wear a flotation device during free time. He even asked if he could remove it, considering he is taller than the pool's depth, but his request was disregarded by the teacher, who simply replied with a dismissive "no."

To make matters worse, when I attempted to address these concerns with the management, they displayed a complete lack of empathy and accountability. Both in person and through email, my complaints were brushed aside, and they adamantly refused to refund the remaining classes. This school's blatant disregard for my son's abilities and their unwillingness to address the issue in a professional and considerate manner is highly disappointing.

What adds to this frustration is that they promised to assess my son's skills during the next class but failed to do so, compounding their unfulfilled commitments. This lack of accountability and follow-through on their part is deeply concerning.

Given these ongoing issues and the failure to deliver on their commitments, I find it increasingly difficult to trust the integrity and professionalism of British Swim School. We will not be back for the remaining classes even thought they’ve already charged us. It’s complete waste of time and money. My son's swimming education deserves better, and I strongly advise anyone considering their services to exercise caution and explore alternative options.

Source: Google

★ 2

Great instructors but very poor service otherwise. Last minute cancellations for classes and sometimes progress. Billing inaccuracies consistently.

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★ 5

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★ 5

Really awesome program with wonderful instructors and staff! My son has finally faced his fear of water and gained his confidence because of the wonderful instructors!

Source: Google

★ 1

This swim class doesn't even deserve a single star. The classes are weak with instructors that are not engaged, and they steal your money - no transparency with what they charge you and have to wiggle room with their make up classes. Charge monthly fees that are doubled up unexpectedly when you start, and cannot make up $50 classes if you don't set it up before you miss the class. A complete disappointment, highly encourage any parents considering this location to either drive further to find a better/different swim school or find a different activity for your child to do.

Source: Google

★ 2

I was happy finding this when my daughter first joined, as it is close by. Since then, she has stagnated for the past few months, seemingly never being assessed / progressed for the next level. She has been placed on the same level with kids far younger than her, and clearly with much less experience- and the staff on deck repeatedly ignore my requests on this. Worse, they do not record any parent requests at all- and my repeated calls for assessment have gone completely unheard. It is bizarre that they place kids of such different abilities and ages together- and it really does not benefit especially the more experienced ones. Very disappointed.

Source: Google

★ 1

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★ 1

Disappointing, not just for us, but for my daughter twice in a row on the first month. How unacceptable to cancel the session last minute, with a little girl showing up to learn how to swim. and then nothing... And all with a story of "bad water temperature" and yet when we show up (since we didn't get the last minute voicemail when the staff was trying to call it a day early) and talk to 24 hour fitness staff, no issues with water. Seems to be a lie, pure and simple. first month, two sessions canceled in a row, won't put my girl through this another time. done.

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

Excellent. Efficient classes, friendly instructors and my six yo loves coming multiple times each week

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★ 5

We sent our daughter to the school at Portrero location. The teachers are very patient and has helped her acclimate very quickly in a couple months, she is now on to the next level

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★ 5

I love the focus on survival techniques at this school. The teachers are so friendly and warm to my new swimmers!

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

Fabulous swim class - we started in Starfish with my four year old son and he’s already gaining confidence in the water and skills for safety. The staff are encouraging and warm to the kiddos. Highly recommend it!

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★ 5

Great place for kid swimming. They have added some new staff very friendly and patient. My son is now very excited going to the class!

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★ 5

Great staff , great teachers. My son has learned and improved so much!! Highly recommended!

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★ 4

My daughter has a great experience here T British Swim School. We have been to different branches, all of them are good, nice and clean, very friendly staffs. The only reason I take 1 star off because there are different instructors (most of them are excellent) every time, so there is no consistency. Overall a good place for kids to learn how to swim.

Source: Google

★ 5

Searching for swim classes for my 5 and 3 year old and we came across British Swim school. My little one isn't a big fan of water but the every instructor they have had has made them feel so comfortable and they have some much fun learning. I enjoy the small classes, it gives the instructors more one on one time with them. The price is fairly decent and the service is great. I highly recommend trying them for your little beginner swimmers.

Source: Google

★ 5

Very kind, attentive staff and teachers. Our kids have loved class from Day 1 - the teachers work with them within their comfort levels and coach them to try and practice new skills.

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★ 5

They are great !!!! My daughter just loves every single class !!
So friendly clean space and very nice teachers!

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★ 5

Instructors really worked with the kids to get them comfortable in the pool. They went from being scared of the water to enjoying class every week!

Source: Google

★ 5

My kids have come a long way since starting at the British Swim School. We joined last summer (when swim schools reopened) and signed up for a class plus the intensive. I did this because they pretty much lost a lot of time swimming due to Covid. For us, this school works for several different reasons: 1) clear benchmarks and I can observe progress - you get feedback during each class and it’s really helpful for added when you go swimming with your kids (honestly, more time in the water outside of class really helps accelerate their progress) , 2) convenience - we are 5 minutes from the Potrero 24 hour so it takes us no time to get ready for class and head out the door 3) actually this should be our first reason- Teacher Izzy, my kids LOVE her- she’s an AWESOME instructor who knows how to work with kids and does an excellent job with corrections, etc. we don’t always get her but feel so lucky when we do. Other instructors are good too and follow established methodology but Izzy is EXTRA SPECIAL! 4) very flexible make-up policy which recently changed and I’m glad because we are living in Covid times. I also wanted to add that getting classes elsewhere were tough so I’m glad we started here at BSS and I imagine we will keep going until our kids graduate Shark 2. Even though swim classes in general are expensive - especially when you have 2 + kids, I believe that being able to swim is an essential life skill.

Source: Google

★ 4

Our little one has gained so much confidence here through the one year she has been attending to weekly lessons here.
Most teachers are good, some are superb and a few still need training.
Only down side is the fact they rely on 24 hr fitness facilities which can be grubby

Source: Google

★ 4

Love the BSS. My child has progressed well. One thing I would like to change is the front/back/stroke focus. Instead of alternating every other week, maybe focus on it for the whole month? Young kids learn better with constant repetition.

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★ 5

My granddaughter loves her swimming lessons at Potrero Hill. The staff here is friendly and professional.

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

All the personal are very professional and patient with the kids .
My son loves going to his lesson and is looking forward to he’s next class .

Source: Google

★ 5

We have loved having our 2yo daughter in this program for a year now. She has learned to stay afloat and climb out of the pool. She especially loves play time.

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★ 4

The registration process was smooth and the staff is incredibly helpful. My son enjoys attending the class and it's great to see him build confidence in his abilities.

Source: Google

★ 5

British Swim School has made learning to swim as an adult a wonderful experience. Everyone at the school has been very helpful and encouraging. Best of all, I have learned to swim the backstroke and I’m now learning to swim freestyle.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great instructors. Flexible scheduling. Many locations. Our kid loves swimming and can't wait for her next class

Source: Google

★ 5

The staff at British Swim School are very kind, patient, and safe with our child. I would recommend them to any friends or family!

Source: Google

★ 5

Experienced swim 🏊‍♀️ instructors and friendly staff. They will ensure that a proper training is provided to the students based on their skill level. We live far but it is all worth taking my son here. They practice Covid safety protocols for their students as well. My son used to be fearful of going in the water but not anymore. Now he’s having fun and excited to learn more new skills. Thanks to all of you! British Swim School in Potrero is the right place to go. I highly recommend this place!!

Source: Google

★ 5

Both my daughters have gone through the program and it is a relief that they’ve come out water safe and confident swimmers. They looked forward to each lesson.

Source: Google

★ 5

My daughter loves it here!

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★ 5

Our 3.5 y/o started with swimming lessons here several months ago and she loves it! She was timid and scared at first but the teachers and staff were so supportive, empathetic and caring! They really work hard to meet your child where they are at and help them feel safe and confident in the water. The teachers and staff here really make British Swim School stand apart from other options in the city. Our favorite teachers lately here on Saturday's have been Knowledge, Natalie, Kya and Addy.

Source: Google

★ 1

I had a terrible experience with my 11 month old son. The school occupies 1 lane of the 24 hour fitness pool. During class there are gym members in their lanes. The noise just echoes in the space so when older kids yell during the class it bounces off the walls. My son hated it so much he cried the entire class. The instructors just left us alone, didn’t give us any tips to help my son aclimate. For 30 minutes we were left standing in a cold pool with constant loud noises and a crying baby. I changed schools and thankfully he’s responded well to that.

I reached out to management to stop our membership and they were relentless in charging me for an additional month despite describing our situation.

Can’t recommend it.

Adding this after the owner’s comment below: our son went for several lessons and all were terrible.

Source: Google

★ 3

Water was too cold for toddler class. Could not be made warmer as it’s part of a gym

Source: Google