A Skill for Fun, A Skill for Life
The YMCA introduced the concept of group swim lessons in 1909. Now, each year in more than 2,000 pools across the country, the Y teaches more than a million children from all backgrounds invaluable water safety and swim skills. We are committed to teaching Chester County to swim!
Individuals (14 Years of Age and Younger) must participate in a swim test and will be issued a green, yellow or red band.
Swimming Programs at the Y
Swimming Lessons
YMCA swim lessons are available for all ages— from infants and toddlers to teens and adults. Our certified instructors teach water safety, swimming skills, and confidence through a fun, structured program designed to help everyone become a stronger swimmer.
Lifeguard Certification
Get certified with the nationally recognized Ellis & Associates Lifeguard Training program at the YMCA. Learn lifesaving rescue skills, CPR, and first aid techniques that prepare you for a rewarding career in aquatic safety.
Swim Teams
Join one of our YMCA swim teams and take your swimming to the next level! Four teams, offered at six locations, our competitive swimming programs help kids and teens improve their strokes, build endurance, and develop teamwork and sportsmanship.
Swimming Schedules
Find your perfect swim time with our YMCA pool schedules, featuring lap swimming, family swim, and open swim sessions. Convenient options make it easy to stay active, practice your strokes, or enjoy time in the water with friends and family.
Diving Classes
Take the plunge with diving lessons at the West Chester Area YMCA! Our expert instructors teach proper diving techniques, body control, and water entry skills in a safe, supportive environment for both beginners and advanced divers.
Safety Around Water
The YMCA’s Safety Around Water program is a free community initiative that teaches essential water safety skills to children and families. Participants learn how to stay safe around pools, lakes, and beaches through hands-on, engaging instruction.
Aqua Group Exercise
Experience the benefits of aquatic fitness with Aqua Group Exercise classes — included with your YMCA membership. These water workouts are low-impact, joint-friendly, and ideal for improving strength, balance, and cardiovascular health.
All Swimming Programs
At the YMCA, we offer a full range of aquatic programs — from swim lessons for all ages to swim teams, diving lessons, and aqua group exercise for every fitness level. Whether you’re exploring our open swim schedules or earning your lifeguard certification, the Y provides safe, supportive, and fun opportunities to build confidence and lifelong water safety skills.
The YMCA is committed to teaching critical safety around water skills since accidental drowning is the leading cause of death for children under the age of 15. We understand that the world is 71% water and children are 100% curious.
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What You'll Learn at YMCA Swimming Lessons
The YMCA of Greater Brandywine offers swim lessons for all ages and stages. Our progressive swim lessons teach swimming skills, stroke technique and water safety while encouraging a lifelong love of the water.
Adaptive Programming
The impact of these programs goes far beyond the fun activities planned. The Y believes that in a diverse world we are stronger when we are inclusive, when our doors are open to all and when everyone has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive.
Teen Programs at the Y
Teens in our community are creative and passionate and have many talents to contribute – and we want to ensure they know this about themselves!
We're empowering youth to set and achieve goals by launching Y Achievers and revamping our 7th Grade Initiative.
Learn More About Swimming Programs at the Y
Volunteering is a wonderful way to help support the local community and Y aquatics programs are no different. View opportunities.
Wonderful! Learn more about swimming lesson at the YMCA by reviewing our Frequently Asked Questions.