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Swimming Lessons
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Published: Monday, 16 December 2024 11:41 Written by Michelle
Launching in February 2025, the University of Brighton will be running swim lessons from its Falmer based Brighton Sport and Health Complex. Our swim lessons follow the Swim England Learn to Swim Programme. Tasters will be runnning in February with a free half hour session. From Saturday 22nd February we will be running Swim England recognised lessons delivered by our experienced tutors. Sign up will be termly with sessions costing just £12 per session. There will be sessions to cater for various stages of swimming development.
We will be updating this page over the coming months. To be notified of booking becoming available register here.
ABOUT OUR SWIM CUBS LEAD: NICOLA KIMPTON
Nicola Kimpton is a highly experienced and dedicated senior swimming teacher with over seven years of active teaching experience. For the past four years, she has also excelled as a swim coordinator for multiple swim schools, including leading organizations such as Virgin Active, David Lloyd, and Waterbabies. Nicola’s expertise spans working with swimmers of all ages and abilities, from building water confidence in young children to guiding adults in achieving their fitness goals, overcoming fears, and preparing for triathlons.
When teaching children, Nicola is committed to creating a safe, supportive, and engaging learning environment where young swimmers can develop their skills and confidence at their own pace. She understands that every child learns differently and tailors her approach to suit individual needs, ensuring that lessons are both effective and enjoyable. By fostering trust and encouraging a positive relationship with the water, she helps children build lifelong skills and a love for the sport. With a proven track record of helping others achieve their goals, Nicola takes pride in making a positive impact through her teaching and sharing her passion for swimming.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Which class is appropriate for my child?
When deciding which class is best suited for your child, we understand you may need some guidance. To make this process easier, we offer two options. First, after you register, you can book one of our assessment slots with a member of our teaching team. This will provide a personalized evaluation of your child’s skills and needs. Alternatively, you can use our stage entry guide to determine the most appropriate class level. Both methods are designed to ensure your child is placed in a class where they can thrive and progress confidently.
Can I watch my child during their lessons?
Yes, you are welcome to watch your child during their lessons. However, due to limited poolside space, we allow only one parent/ guardian per swimmer. Once your child is settled, we encourage you to take advantage of our café area. This not only gives you a comfortable place to relax but also helps your child grow inindependence and confidence.
What does my child need to bring for swimming?
To ensure your child is well-prepared for their swim lessons, please pack the following items in their swim kit:
- Swimmers: Appropriate swimwear is a must.
- Swim Cap: This is mandatory for all swimmers.
- Goggles: Optional but highly recommended.
- Rash Vest: An optional extra layer for added comfort.
- Swim Nappy: If your child is not yet toilet trained, they need to wear a swim nappy under their normal costume (double layer required).
Please note that no food or drink is allowed in the changing room or poolside. However, we do recommend your child brings a sealed water bottle to stay hydrated during their lesson.
Cancelled and missed lessons
If a lesson is cancelled by us, it will be credited to your account and carried over to your account balance. This credit will automatically apply to your next payment. Please note that if a class goes ahead but you are unable to attend, it is not eligible for a makeup session, a refund or credit. This policy also applies to missed multiple lessons or withdrawal requests. For further details, please consult our terms and conditions.
What age can my child start swimming lessons?
Our swim lessons are available for children starting at the age of 4 years old. From this point onward, all our stages are designed based on the child's ability rather than their age. This approach ensures that each child progresses at a pace suited to their individual skills and comfort level in the water.
What are the pool facilities?
Our swim lessons will utilise both our 25m laned pool and smaller training pool. These have a continuous depth of 1.2m so is not suitable for diving. Changing including some individual cubicles and shower facilities are available. There are male, female and an accessible for all changing space.
Where are you based?
Our pool is located at the University of Brighton Falmer Campus. This is conveniently located on the outskirts of Brighton with bus and train links from the City and surrounding area. We are located just off the A27 the same side as the football stadium. The pool is part of our Brighton Sport and Health Complex. This also has café social area and wider sports facilities such as multi sport halls, gym, studio space, gymnastics area and outdoor facilities. Free parking is available for Sport Brighton users for up to two hours. Please ensure you input your car details at reception or in the gym to validate your parking at restricted times. Further location information can be found here.
Community Clubs
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Published: Wednesday, 23 October 2024 12:53 Written by Michelle
Below is a list of some local community clubs and groups that hire our facilities. These are run by local community groups. Please contact these groups directly if you wish to get involved.
Activity | Organisation | Who is it for? | Summary | Find out more: |
Netball |
Social 7s Netball League |
Ladies from 14+, all abilities welcome. | Play netball in one of the longest-running independent, friendly, social netball leagues on Thursday evenings in Brighton. We welcome all abilities, from back-to-netball to more competitive players. Games are officiated by qualified and experienced umpires. Individuals and teams are welcome. | |
Football |
AFC Varndeanians |
Youth football, Mens, Womens, Vets, Walking, Social | Football for all from 7 – 70. Local football club with links to the University for many years. County level, Mid Sussex Championship, Youth football, Mens, Womens, Vets, Walking, Social. Training and games in Brighton & Hove | @AFCVarndean |
Football |
Preston Dynamos 1s |
Adult Male 16+ |
We’re one of the longest running grassroots football clubs in Europe, est 1958. We participate in the biggest Sunday League in the country along with 130 other Sunday league teams and we play in the highest division possible, Premier Division. We’re always happy to welcome more talented players to our team. If you’re interested in joining, drop us a message on one of the links provided with a little message about your footballing background. |
Instagram @prestondynamos X @dynamospreston or email at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. |
Gymnastics |
HiTide Gymnastics |
Children 3.5- 13 years |
Children's Recreational Gymnastics. Children ages 3.5 to 13 years. No previous experience necessary, just an interest in the sport |
https://www.hitidegymnasticsclub.co.uk |
Aikido |
Sussex Aikido |
All | Join the fascinating world of Shodokan Aikido; a modern approach to a traditional Japanese Martial Art. Beginners welcome. Separate juniors class. British Aikido Association registered. |
If you use our facilities and would like your information included on this page please email your relevant information to the normal sport bookings email address you use to make your bookings.
Courses & Qualifications
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Published: Saturday, 08 June 2024 12:04 Written by Michelle
Sport Brighton offers a range of courses to enable you to upskill and get industry recognised qualification. Helping you take the next step on your journey.
Fitness Qualifications at the University of Brighton
The University of Brighton now offers gym and fitness qualifications. Offering quality face-to-face courses with online resources to support your next step as a fitness professional. Led by our experienced and qualified tutors, the course will be delivered at the University of Brighton Falmer Campus. You’ll get hands on practical experience utilising both gym and classroom facilities.
Our University of Brighton fitness courses and qualifications are fully endorsed by the leading awarding body Active IQ. This is a recognised qualification with the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA), the professional development body for the UK’s sport and physical activity sector.
We believe in delivering an industry leading qualification. For us this is best delivered face-to-face and using practical sessions to reinforce learning and so you can gain the experience and confidence needed to then use this in the future.
Why study with us:
- Industry recognised qualification
- In person training and support by our experienced industry professionals
- Online additional resources
- Use of our leading facilities for a practical, hands on course
- Allocated tutor to support throughout your course
University of Brighton Level 2 Gym Instructor Qualification
Start your journey in the fitness industry with our Level 2 Certificate in Gym Instruction.
Delivered face-to-face both in the classroom and gym this course is designed for aspiring fitness professionals, providing the essential skills and knowledge required to design and deliver effective gym-based workouts.
This qualification paves the way for a rewarding career, empowering you to inspire clients to achieve their health and fitness goals with confidence and competence.
CIMSPA endorsed with 10 CIMSPA CPD points.
Study format: 40 hours face to face plus e-learning
Suitable for: Those just starting out in the gym and fitness industry
Cost: £799 (£699 to University of Brighton students)
Booking: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Course Format:
Part-time: 1 evening (3 hours) per week for 13 weeks
or
Full-time: Monday- Friday 9am-530pm intensive (1 week)
Qualification Number (QN): 603/2692/X
Entry Requirements: N/A
Course Content:Principles of anatomy, physiology and fitness, Professionalism and customer care for fitness instructors, Health and safety in the fitness environment, Conducting client consultations to support positive behaviour change, Planning and instructing gym-based exercise
Assessments: Multiple choice paper, portfolio of evidence, practical teaching assessment
Further Information:This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
NEXT COURSE (Click to book):
University of Brighton Level 3 Personal Training Qualification
Unleash your potential and deliver personal training with confidence.
Our University of Brighton Level 3 Certificate in Personal Training will enhance your understanding of fitness principles but will also equip you with the practical skills needed to design and execute effective training programmes, tailored to individual client goals.
You’ll receive face-to-face training at our University of Brighton Falmer Campus utilising the gym and classroom facilities.
This qualification paves the way to a successful career in personal training.
CIMSPA endorsed with 10 CIMSPA CPD points.
Study Format: 80 hours face to face plus e-learning
Suitable for: Those looking to undertake personal training.
Cost: £999
Booking: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Course Format:
Part-time: 1 evening (3 hours) per week for 26 weeks
or
Full-time: Monday- Friday 9am-530pm intensive (2 weeks)
Qualification Number (QN): 603/4113/0
Entry Requirements: L2 Gym Instruction
Course Content: Applied anatomy and physiology for exercise, health and fitness, The principles of nutrition and their application to exercise and health, Understanding lifestyle, health, well-being and common medical conditions, Delivering client consultations and health and fitness assessments, Personal training for individuals and groups in a range of environments, Professionalism and business acumen for personal trainers, Nutrition for sport and exercise performance
Assessments: Multiple choice paper, portfolio of evidence, practical teaching assessment
NEXT COURSE (Click to book):
University of Brighton Combined Level 3 PT Diploma
This is the above 2 qualifications combined. Price: £1699 (£1599 UoB students)
NEXT COURSE:
YOUR COURSE TUTOR
Sam Holliday is the lead for fitness related courses at Sport Brighton. With years of experience you will be guided through your course from sign up to completion. Read below some testimonials from Sam's previous students.
For the past 10 years Sam has been delivering CIMSPA accredited internationally recognised fitness qualifications (including L2 Gym Instructor and L3 Personal Trainer) for industry leading training providers, also writing training courses, CPD workshops and delivering webinars and educational articles for industry press.
Sam also brings extensive health and fitness experience gained from operating as a successful personal trainer in London and Surrey for many years working with professional athletes, celebrities, international sport stars and the wider general public. During his career he has also achieved tremendous success in senior management roles in education and at David Lloyd, Virgin Active, Fitness First and in the corporate sector.
Above all, Sam prides himself on motivating his clients to achieve incredible goals and supporting new and experienced fitness professionals improve their knowledge and skills to maximise their success in the industry.
TESTIMONIALS
"Sam - A Truly Exceptional Tutor - Nothing short of 5*
I cannot express enough how grateful I am to have had Sam as my tutor for my Level 2 and 3 exercise qualifications. From the very beginning, Sam proved himself to be a fantastic leader, guiding us with in-depth detail and thorough understanding of the course content. His approach to teaching is not only highly informative but also incredibly supportive - he is always there to assist, making complex topics easy to grasp.
What sets Sam apart is his approachable nature; his friendliness instantly puts students at ease. He creates a positive learning environment where you feel comfortable asking questions and seeking guidance. Sam's dedication to his students' success is evident in every lesson; he is meticulous in providing course content and ensures that everyone understands the material fully.
I can confidently say that Sam is the best tutor I have ever experienced, and I would highly recommend him to anyone seeking to advance their qualifications. Thanks to Sam's guidance and expertise, my business has flourished over the past eight years. From running a booming personal training business to also establishing a successful fitness & wellbeing retreat company, I owe a significant part of my journey to Sam's support during my studies. Without his help, I may not be where I am today.
If you're looking for a tutor who genuinely cares about your success and has the skills to get you there, Sam is the one you need. Thank you, Sam, for everything - you have been instrumental in helping me achieve my dreams! " Fiona Dean - Level 4 Personal Trainer, owner of teamfi & xplr-retreats
"Working with Sam was not only a great introduction to the PT world, but he also gave me the support and guidance that I needed to reach my final goal and overall dream…owning my own PT studio." Pete Buckland, Owner Phys Training, East Preston, West Sussex
"I owe a lot of my 15 year career in fitness to Sam's training, mentoring and guidance. He taught me my very first L2 fitness course and he hired me as a fitness tutor myself 8 years later. I can't think of anyone better to have helped me to develop my skills as a fitness instructor, personal trainer and fitness tutor/assessor. Sam has a clear, concise delivery style making the subject matter accessible, interesting and fun. Making the choice to train with Sam is taking the best possible first step into becoming a fitness professional. What Sam doesn't know about fitness and delivery, isn't worth knowing!!!" Debbie Francis, Personal Trainer, Studio Manager, Fitness Tutor & Assessor
"My career as a Personal Trainer took a significant jump forward when I met Sam, who was instructing the Level 3 Personal Trainer course that I was enrolled on. Sam's exceptional teaching skills and deep passion for health and fitness quickly made him a mentor I admired.
After earning my qualifications, I was fortunate to join Sam's team at Virgin Active Rustington. Under his guidance, I honed my skills and developed a strong foundation for my career. Sam's support and mentorship were invaluable as I progressed to a managerial role at another club and ultimately launched my own fitness business. Without his expertise and encouragement, I wouldn't be where I am today." Tim Arnold Fitness manager, Virgin Active, Owner & Founder Peak Performance Sussex Limited
"Sam is the ultimate professional who can tailor his approach to the needs of the individual. He is a fantastic role model, knowledgeable, approachable, and is able to facilitate learning as well as physical development. I would highly recommend his services." Stacey Lumbard, International Athlete & Secondary school teacher
Panthers x BUCS
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Published: Thursday, 01 August 2024 11:36 Written by Michelle
The University of Brighton enters a number of teams into the British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) programmes. These include one off events or weekly league fixtures. The University of Brighton competes as the Brighton Panthers. Follow Sport Brighton's Instagram account for updates and the action from those competing for the university. Use the table below to see the Panthers fixtures, results and league standings for the current year. Most fixtures take place on Wednesday afternoons in term. American Football, Futsal and Baseball all take place on weekends. Why not visit The Clubhouse cafe at the Brighton Sport and Health Complex while you are here. If you take part in BUCS national events then check out the BUCS photostream for images from the major championships and events.
#BleedPurple
CHECK OUT OUR LATEST PANTHER UPDATES FROM INSTAGRAM
Sports Awards 2024 Results
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Published: Thursday, 16 May 2024 08:53 Written by Michelle
The University of Brighton Sports Awards took place on Friday 10th May 2024. The evening looked to celebrate the sporting successes of the year. Students and guests enjoyed dinner and the awards ceremony at the event hosted at the Hilton Metropole. Jessica Gordon Brown also joined us for the evening. The Brighton alumni went on to win a silver medal at the Birmingham Commonwealth Games in weightlifting. Whilst at the univeristy Jessica was actually a Judo scholar. It was at the university she discovered weightlifting might be for her.
Main Award Winners
Volunteer of the Year | Sade Orija- Basketball
Philanthropy Award | Men's Rugby Union
Club of the Year | Dance Brighton
Coach of the Year | Mark Shutt- Men's Football
Team of the Year BUCS | American Football
Team of the Year Events | Polo
Sports Person of the Year | Herculas Pretorious – American Football
Panthers Achievement Award | Megan Hendrie- Women's Cricket
Full Colours | Herculas Pretorious – American Football
Panthers Club Colours
American Football | Tomas Pickles |
Badminton | Paankhuri Bhatia |
Basketball (W) | Lara Morrison |
Cheerleading (Panthers) | Hope Danniels |
Cricket (M) | Ikjot Thind |
Cricket (W) | Hollie Wilby- Denham |
Dance (Br.) | Mia Ryan |
Football (M Br.) | Charlie Kneath |
Football (M EB) | George Davis |
Football (W EB) | Ella Mcmanus |
Korfball | Abi Craske |
Netball (Br.) | Eden Chamberlain-James |
Netball (EB) | Grace Westwood |
Polo | Charlotte Birtwhistle |
Rugby Union (M) | Luke Gregory |
Rugby Union (W) | Jas Hooper |
Ski and Snowboard | Samuel Maxwell |
Tennis | Toby Cook |
Volleyball | Harry Orchard |
Videos and photos