Instructional Swimming

Water safety is incredibly important to our programs. 

The program is run by WeAquatics. Lessons take place at the pool located inside OneLife Fitness in Tenleytown, just down the block from NPS. There is an in-pool ratio of 1:4, depending on the age and experience level. On the pool deck, a pool coordinator and lifeguard circulates the area.

For additional safety in the pool area, the campers’ teachers from NPS Summer remain on the deck to watch the lessons. There is a limit on the number of swimmers allowed in the pool at a time.

Bluebirds: Skill Level 1 & 2: 4 days/week
Larks: Skill Level 1 & 2: 4 days/week
Robins: Skill Level 1 & 2: 4 days/week
Hawks: Skill Level 2: 4 days/week

Campers are divided into groups based on age and skill level:
Skill Level 1 - Beginners: Focuses on water comfort, basic skills, and building confidence. Ideal for those new to swimming or with minimal experience.
Skill Level 2 - Intermediate: Develops technique, introduces stroke mechanics, and enhances endurance. Perfect for swimmers with foundational skills who are ready to progress.

​​​​​​​This structure ensures that swim lessons are tailored to the camper’s skill level and approximate age group. 

​​​​​​​All campers are evaluated on their first day (and periodically after) to ensure they have been placed in the correct program. The instructors always err heavily on the side of caution when placing campers into groups and will retest as needed to ensure that a camper is in the best group for their particular ability and stamina. 

Yes! Many of our youngest campers have little to no swimming ability or skill proficiency - this is not a problem, and the instructors work with campers one-on-one to help build their skills and stamina.

Instructors can also help swimmers build their comfort level in the water, but please note: Staff members will not push, throw, or pull campers into the pool. We will coax campers to give their best effort and will notify parents if a camper regularly refuses to enter the pool or participate. 

Goggles are required. Water wings and floaties are not permitted, as these can cause children to develop a false sense of security, as well as an ineffective vertical swimming posture. 

This summer, parents will have access to WeAquatic’s iClassPro portal, where instructors will post daily updates regarding skill mastery and other information.

Swimmers wear their bathing suits to camp or change upon arrival to camp. They rinse off in the locker rooms before entering the pool. Campers change into their clothes at camp, so swimmers should bring a cover-up, light swim robe, or rash guard for the walk back to campus.

If you have additional questions about our swim program, and the logistics involved, please contact Camp Director Caitlin Webster at cwebster@nps-dc.org.