These rules apply to all public swimming sessions. Please read them carefully before bringing children to the pool.

Children Under 4 Years

Children under 4 years of age must be accompanied in the water by a responsible person over the age of 16 on a 1:1 ratio.


Exception — Buoyancy Aids

The ratio becomes 1:2 (one adult to two children) if any child under 4 is wearing a suitable buoyancy aid that is "Kite Marked" or carries a BS EN Number.

Buoyancy aids accepted under this policy are those that:

  • Fully support the child's weight in the water
  • Remain secure in and out of the water
  • For example: armbands or a float jacket/suit
Hand-held buoyancy aids (e.g. floats) are not considered appropriate for this purpose.

Children Aged 4 to 7 Years

Children aged 4 to 7 years of age must be accompanied in the water by a responsible person over the age of 16, with no more than 2 children per responsible person.


Teaching Pool / Controlled Area Exception

One responsible person over the age of 16 may supervise up to 3 children aged between 4 and 7 years in:

  • The Teaching Pool, or
  • A designated "controlled area" — e.g. a boom pool or laned-off section of shallow water

Children Aged 8 to 15 Years

Children aged 8 to 11 years of age must be accompanied in the water by a responsible person over the age of 16 years.

Quick Reference Summary

Age Group Supervision Required Max children per adult
Under 4 Must be accompanied in the water by an adult (16+) 1 child per adult (2 if child wears approved buoyancy aid)
4 to 7 Must be accompanied in the water by an adult (16+) 2 children per adult (3 in Teaching Pool or controlled area)
8 to 11 Must be accompanied in the water by an adult (16+) No stated maximum
Questions?

Contact the pool directly if you have any questions about the policy.

Tel: 01303 269177

Email: hythe.pool@folkestone-hythe.gov.uk