Swim@Barker

Welcome to the Barker Foundation Aquatic Centre website. Here you will find general information regarding the Aquatic Centre Learn to Swim (LTS), Holiday Intensives LTS and Squad Training programs.

The Barker Foundation Aquatic Centre has recently undertaken a rigorous external audit and successfully passed the Swim School Accreditation. The accreditation scheme was introduced by Swim Australia and was primarily designed to raise industry standards, and consequently acknowledges Swim Schools achieving a high benchmark.

The Aquatic Centre offers a fully integrated all-year-round swimming coaching and training program. It provides for:

  • Learn to Swim classes from Pre-K to pre-squad, for Barker students.
  • Junior through to Senior Squads for both competitive and non-competitive pathways.
  • Complete Age Group and Open training programs for State and National swimmers.
  • Adult Squad classes.
Key Features
  • Indoor, heated, 17m length learn to swim program pool (31°C)
  • Indoor, heated eight lane 25m length pool (27°C)
  • Outdoor, heated eight lane 50m length pool (27°C) at Hornsby Aquatic Centre (Non-Barker Squads only)

Learn to Swim Program

Learn to Swim Program Barker Students

The Aquatic Centre operates a learn to swim program. This is available to all current Barker students. The program caters for all levels and includes:

  • Preschool classes
  • School age
  • Fitness programs
  • Private lessons
  • Holiday Intensive LTS 
  • Junior school carnival preparation (January Holiday Intensives only)
  • Teen learn to swim

Operating Hours

The Swim School is fully professional and is consistently busy on a daily basis five days a week. Bookings are essential via application and monthly lesson fees apply.

  • Monday and Thursday mornings 6:15am to 10:30am
  • Monday to Thursday afternoons 2:15pm to 6:00pm
  • Friday afternoons 2:15pm to 5:15pm

Staff Qualifications

All Barker College instructors hold the recognised national qualification for teaching of swimming and water safety either through Austswim or Swimming Australia, the industry standard for swimming and water safety teachers and a current CPR certificate.

We are aware of the reports about legislative loopholes in regard to swim school management. Staff at the Barker College Foundation Aquatic Centre have a responsibility to create and maintain a safe culture that is understood, endorsed and put into action by all individuals who work for, volunteer, or access the programs and services offered by our Centre.

All Barker College employees hold a current Working with Children Check (WWCC) and undergo a National Police Check upon recruitment. Staff are also advised of their Reporting Obligations under both the Ombudsman Act 1974the Children and Young Persons (Care and Protection) Act 1998 and the Criminal Legislation Amendment (Child Sexual Abuse) Act 2018.

Ongoing support and training are provided to all Barker College employees including the Foundation Aquatic Centre. Staff are aware of their obligations to address any issues that may arise promptly, confidentially and with professionalism.

Our first priority is the children in our care and clear procedures are in place by the School for the reporting of any concerns in regards to children, young people or vulnerable adults.

Assessments for new enrolments

Assessments are not required if your child is an absolute beginner, or a paddler and kicker that can swim less than 10 metres.

All new members must complete an online registration including contact details and emergency information.

Registration can be made through our Customer Portal: https://barkercollege.accounts.ud.io

Centre Terms & Conditions

Contact details:

Aquatic Centre Reception: (02) 8438 7281

Reception Operating Hours
Monday to Friday:  9.30am to 5.00pm