When a parent brings their child to their first trial at a swim club, there’s a mix of excitement and nervousness in the changing room that I know well. As a coach and long-time swimmer, I’ve seen thousands of first-timers and fielded the questions parents forget to ask when nerves take over. Below I share the practical questions I think every parent should ask — and the things to watch for — so you can leave that trial knowing you’ve made an informed choice for your child.
Why ask these questions?
Trials are a two-way conversation: the club evaluates the swimmer, and you evaluate the club. Your child’s first session should give you clues about coaching quality, safety, atmosphere, and whether the club’s priorities align with your family’s goals. I always encourage parents to be curious — clubs that welcome questions are usually the ones with clear structures and good communication.
Session and coaching questions to ask
These help you understand what your child will experience and how progress is managed.
What is the session structure? Ask for a quick breakdown: warm-up, drill sets, main set, cool-down, and any land work. A clear structure shows planning and purpose.Who will be coaching my child? Get the coach’s name and level of experience. It’s fine to ask about their qualifications (e.g., ASA/Swim England badges, Level 2/3 coaching certificates) and whether they have DBS/CRB checks. Good clubs are transparent about staff credentials.How many swimmers per coach? A safe ratio means more attention. For youth squads, anything above 12–15 swimmers per coach can affect technique instruction. Masters may tolerate larger groups, but younger swimmers benefit from smaller ratios.How is technique monitored and corrected? Ask how coaches give feedback — verbally, with demonstrations, or using video. I favour clubs that combine verbal cues with hands-on demo and occasional video; it speeds learning.Is there individual goal setting? Clubs that set short-term and season goals for swimmers tend to show consistent improvement. Ask how progress is tracked and shared with parents.Safety, safeguarding and welfare
Safety is non-negotiable. These questions reveal whether the club takes safeguarding seriously.
What are your safeguarding policies? Ask for the name of the club’s safeguarding officer and how concerns should be raised. A club should show a clear, accessible policy.Are coaches first aid trained? It’s reassuring to know that at least some staff have up-to-date first-aid and pool lifeguard training.How do you manage poolside behaviour and child welfare? Look for rules about parents on poolside, photography, and how coaches communicate with minors. Good clubs balance parental access with safe, focused sessions.Practicalities parents often overlook
These small details matter for day-to-day life and scheduling.
What are the fees and what do they cover? Clarify monthly or term fees, gala fees, membership costs, and kit requirements. Ask how refunds or make-up sessions are handled if a session is missed.What kit does my child need? Basic items: swim cap, goggles, training fins, paddles for older swimmers, and a training costume. Brands like Speedo and Arena are common for club gear. If the club requires specific kit or branded swimsuits, ask about any discounts for members.How do cancellations or pool closures work? Pools close for maintenance and competitions. Find out the club’s policy on refunds or alternative sessions.Is there a waiting list? Popular squads often have waiting lists. If you’re keen, ask how prioritisation works (e.g., sibling priority, trial performance, or ability).Competition, development and pathway
Understanding the club’s approach to competition and long-term development helps align expectations.
Do you attend galas and county meets? Some clubs prioritise racing; others focus on participation and technique. Ask about expected commitment levels for competitions and if travel is involved.What is the pathway for progression? Ask how swimmers move between squads. Is it by time standards, coach recommendation, or a combination? Clear promotion criteria indicate structured development.How do you support swimmers who struggle with confidence or attendance? Clubs committed to long-term development will have strategies to re-engage swimmers who find training hard or who miss sessions.Culture and inclusion — what to observe
Some of the most important answers come from watching the session, not from formal questions.
How do coaches speak to swimmers? Positive, specific feedback is far more effective than shouting or negative criticism. Look for coaches who correct technique constructively.What is the overall mood? Is it encouraging? Competitive? Overly strict? Match the club tone to your child’s personality — some kids thrive in high-pressure squads, others in a supportive, inclusive environment.Are swimmers of different abilities included? A good youth squad balances challenge for fast swimmers with support for developing ones. Inclusion shows the club values everyone’s progress.Questions about communication
Clear, regular communication keeps parents informed and builds trust.
How do you communicate with parents? Ask whether updates come via email, WhatsApp group, or an app. Regular, predictable communication about sessions, meets, and fees is a sign of professionalism.Can I talk to the coach after a session? Many clubs have polite post-session debriefs or scheduled parents’ evenings. Find out the best way and time to discuss your child’s development without disrupting the squad.What to watch for during the trial
When you’re at the pool, these are practical things I tell parents to notice.
Punctuality: Are sessions starting and finishing on time? Punctuality reflects organisation.Warm-up quality: A structured warm-up reduces injury risk and sets the tone for the session.Coach accessibility: Do coaches circulate and offer individual advice, or are they static? Active coaching is more effective.Swimmer behaviour: Are children engaged and following directions? Chaos can hide structural problems. | Quick trial checklist | Yes/No |
| Coach introduces themselves and explains the session | |
| Clear warm-up and set structure | |
| Coach-to-swimmer interaction is constructive | |
| Safe poolside behaviour and visible lifeguard/safety measures | |
| Transparent fees and kit requirements explained | |
Bringing a short list of your own priorities also helps. Are you looking for technical development, a social environment, or a pathway to competition? Tell the coach — it helps them recommend the right squad and set realistic expectations.
