COMMUNITY

There are 60 part-time instructors who teach 1,350 swimmers weekly in the 10mx20m heated pool. Parents watch from the climate-controlled parent viewing area that boasts a direct view of the pool through floor to ceiling windows. Sound suppression panels hang above the pool area to mitigate noise levels and enables the school to offer programming to sensory sensitive swimmers. A modernized chair lifts enable staff to lower swimmers with disabilities in and out of the pool This past month they were able to open their pool to both a paraplegic and a deaf swimmer, showcasing their strong desire to offer lessons - and a safe facility - to individuals of all abilities.

Brave Waves Swim School stands out from other swim schools in its simple approach to programming Recognizing today’s families are busy and, on the go, the school allows caregivers to pick the day and time of week that fits their busy life, and that time remains yours forever, until you opt out. They offer a perpetual enrollment basis, meaning, your child’s spot in class is yours on-going with your current monthly tuition You can opt out at any time and are not stuck in a season long commitment. What’s even better is your child can continuously level up based on a timeline that fits their skill level, not a timeline determined by a season or class you selected during registration

Poolside i-Pads power their proprietary swimmerevaluations allowing instructors to constantly monitor and update a swimmer’s progress When the evaluation shows the student is ready to move up, they advance right away to continue to build on their momentum and progression. Immediate positive reinforcement does wonders for a swimmer confidence, which in turn only heightens their ability in the pool.

And those progress updates are connected to a Brave Waves Swim app updated in real time giving parents and caregivers precise detail and feedback on how their child is doing in the pool. This approach is motivational for the swimmer and provides super value for parents, said Craig The school also uses brand new i-Pads in the lobby so families can check into classes electronically, reducing any line ups at the start of each new class. It’s a wellorganized system that keeps families moving in and out of the facility all day long.

As the school continues to grow, so will its philosophy for philanthropy Brave Waves contributes annually to local charities - Lansdowne Children’s Centre, the Rotary Club, the Arnold Anderson Sports Fund, the McMaster Children’s Hospital, the Brant County SPCA and Autism Dog Services among others. The Brave Waves family is very passionate about community building and giving back

Thirteen years ago, as the Surettes welcomed the first set of swimmers to their backyard oasis, no one knew what kind of passion it would ignite. “I don’t have the words to explain it – unthinkable, unimaginable,” said Craig.” The dream is now a reality. How lucky am I? I get to help my daughters, shoulder-to-shoulder with my wife We get to see the faces of smiling kids every day and we watch amazing leaders (instructors) on their journey of learning and growth.”

With the doors open and programs expanding, Craig is sure more than ever that as he retires from the corporate world, his new career awaits him poolside at Brave Waves Swim School.

“I will be taking the occasional shift at the pool - after I’m recertified,” he laughs.

If you’re interested in learning more about Brave Waves Swim School programs, visit them online here The school is also looking for a permanent part-time and a permanent full-time swim instructor, and Facilities Manager and Aquatics Director to join their leadership team. If you’re interested, email Craig at craig@bravewavesswim com