British Swim School Makes a Splash in Eastern MontCo

British Swim School is the pioneer of gentle, non-traditional water survival and learn-to-swim programs. And they’re opening their first school in Eastern Montgomery County! The local franchise, British Swim School of Greater Philadelphia, has recently signed an agreement with LA Fitness in North Wales. Lessons will begin on or about April 1.

The British Swim School currently operates two schools located in Richboro and Bensalem in Bucks County. Owners Stu Gelbord and Marisa Gillen are excited about their expansion into Montgomery County. The collaboration between LA Fitness and British Swim School will offer a unique package of family wellness programs to the surrounding communities. They offer classes for all ages, 3 months to adult, and all skill levels, including beginners.

The British Swim School takes great pride in being the nation’s premier water survival and learn to swim program. Expanding greatly since their start in 1981, they currently operate schools in 3 countries, 21 states and 191 pool locations. When asked what makes British Swim School special, Stu Gelbord offered the following:

“We understand that parents have choices when it comes to the education and well-being of their children. Our mission, at British Swim School, is to help create safe and happy swimmers by being the best at what we do. We do this by offering small class sizes, highly trained and very caring instructors, and a unique goal-oriented level based program that keeps students challenged and engaged in the learning process. Equally important, our students have fun while learning.”

British Swim School Mission

Megan Mattingly is the General Manager and Aquatics Director. Her passion for aquatics, extensive background in teaching, and her drive for excellence sets the tone for every aspect of the program.

“Our mission is to always be the premiere swim school in the area with my team delivering a fun, high paced learning environment. We want every student to feel safe and confident in the water.”

Unfortunately, drowning is the leading cause of accidental death among young children. Research shows that while parental safety is always the number one safety measure, swim programs such as British Swim School can reduce the risk of drowning by 88 percent among children who are most at risk. The company has made it a mission to help prevent these tragic deaths. Their two-step curriculum teaches children and adults water safety and survival skills first, swimming skill development second.