Inclusive Pool Therapy Program
Building confidence and capacity for children to access mainstream swimming lessons
What is the Inclusive Pool Therapy Program?
Bridging the gap to mainstream swimming
Many children with disability or developmental differences find it challenging to participate in mainstream swimming lessons. Our Inclusive Pool Therapy Program is designed to build the essential capacity, confidence and skills children need to successfully transition into regular swimming classes.
Through supportive, small group experiences, we help children develop confidence, group participation skills, and sensory tolerance in a pool environment. Our evidence-based approach focuses on removing barriers so children can access the same opportunities as their peers.
Why enrol your child in Avina's Pool Therapy Program?
Small group support
Experienced facilitators
Capacity building focus
Program details and funding
A pathway to joining mainstream swimming
The program runs for 10 weeks with 30-minute sessions designed to fit around school schedules. Children work in small, supportive groups with a qualified clinician and an experienced swim instructor.
Upon completion of the program, children receive a capacity building report documenting their progress and readiness for mainstream swimming lessons.
Funding is available through NDIS Capacity Building (Improved Daily Living) for eligible participants, or private fee-for-service arrangements for families preferring this option.
What does the program focus on?
Water confidence
Group participation
Sensory adaptations
Transition readiness
Social connections
Limited spots available across select locations
Early registration is recommended to secure your child’s place. This program has limited spaces to ensure quality support for each child, and currently operates in select locations including:
- Lismore (Goonellabah Sports and Aquatic Centre)
- East Maitland
- Glebe
If you’re not in one of these areas, we still encourage you to register your interest as we continue to roll out this program to new locations based on community demand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my child need an NDIS plan to participate?
Many families use NDIS Capacity Building funding, but we also offer private fee-for-service options. Our team can help you understand which pathway works best.
How is this different from regular swimming lessons?
Regular swimming lessons focus on teaching swimming techniques and water safety. Our program is capacity building therapy that prepares children for those mainstream lessons.
We work on building water confidence, group participation skills, and sensory tolerance – the foundational skills needed to join mainstream swimming classes.
Do I need to attend with my child?
It’s recommended that a guardian or support person attends each session to assist with any specific needs that may arise, such as toileting or comfort support. This could be a parent, grandparent, support worker, or other trusted carer. You’re not required to get in the pool – just be available poolside if needed.
What happens after the program?
Upon completion, your child will demonstrate the confidence and skills needed to transition into mainstream swimming lessons. We provide a detailed capacity building report to support this transition.
When does the program run?
The program operates in 10-week blocks throughout the school year, with sessions scheduled after-school. Contact us for current availability and start dates.
What if my child has specific sensory needs?
Our multidisciplinary team includes clinicians experienced in supporting children with various sensory and developmental needs. We tailor our approach to each child’s unique requirements.
I'm worried my child won't get in the pool - is this program still suitable?
Absolutely. Helping children feel confident entering the water is often one of our key goals. We work at your child’s pace to build the capacity and comfort needed, whether they’re starting from the pool edge or need support with the first step into the water. We have resources and strategies prepared to work through these challenges, and our intake team will be in touch to help you and your child prepare for the program.
What locations is this program offered?
We currently operate in Lismore, East Maitland, and Glebe. If you’re not in one of these areas, we encourage you to register your interest as we continue expanding to new locations based on community demand.
Enquire today about our Inclusive Pool Therapy Program. Share your details and we'll be in touch.
This form will take about five minutes to complete.
