Learn to swim. Then keep going.
From first splashes to confident swimming and beyond. Our pathway takes swimmers through stroke development, water safety, lifesaving and for those who want to go further, lifeguarding and swim teaching.
Autumn Term 2026 • Booking Now
The Star Splash Pathway
A pathway that goes beyond swimming
Seal Awards
Levels 1 - 5 · First splashes to strong foundations
Marlin Awards
Levels 6 - 9 · Stroke development & technique
Star Squads
Levels 10 - 13 · Junior Lifeguard · Water Safety & Rescue Awards
Water Safety & Beyond
Lifeguarding · Swim Teaching · Instructor Training
Not sure where to start?
Book a 15-minute swim assessment.
We’ll assess your swimmer’s confidence and ability and recommend the right class. The €15 assessment fee is deducted from your term booking.
Autumn Term 2026
Find a class that suits you
Private Lessons
30 min · Cian Doran · 1-to-1, 2-to-1 or 3-to-1
Join the waitlist →Private Lessons
30 min · Cian Doran · 1-to-1, 2-to-1 or 3-to-1
Book this class →Private Lessons
30 min · Cian Doran · 1-to-1, 2-to-1 or 3-to-1
Join the waitlist →Why choose Star Splash Academy?
Never more than four in a swimming lesson.
Small groups mean more individual teaching, more time in the water and more opportunity to progress.
A pathway that goes further
From first lessons through squads, water safety, lifesaving, lifeguarding and swim teaching.
More than swimming skills
Confidence and water safety are built into every stage, alongside strong swimming technique.
Teachers who know the water
Water Safety Ireland qualified teachers with experience across swimming, lifesaving and lifeguarding.
Meet Ashleigh
“There’s nothing more rewarding than watching a nervous beginner grow into a confident swimmer.”
My own swimming journey began at just four years old. From those first lessons, I went on to qualify as a Lifeguard, Assistant Swim Teacher and Water Safety Ireland Swim Teacher.
I founded Star Splash Academy to create a swim school centred around small classes, individual attention and a clear pathway for every swimmer.
Today, Star Splash Academy has grown into a team of 10 qualified swim teachers, all sharing the same commitment to confidence, safety and progression in the water.
Read our story →What families say
Trusted by Carlow families
My daughter was always quite nervous around water and I honestly wasn’t sure how she would get on with lessons. The patience shown to her from the very beginning made such a difference. She was never rushed or pressured and now she absolutely loves going swimming. Seeing how confident she has become in the water has been amazing.
We’ve been with Star Splash Academy for a few terms now and have had such a positive experience. The small class sizes are brilliant and you can really see the individual attention the children get. The instructors are so encouraging and my child looks forward to their lesson every week. Couldn’t recommend them enough.
What I love most about Star Splash Academy is how comfortable and happy the children are in the pool. The lessons are fun, but you can also see how much they are learning each week. Our little boy has come on so much with his swimming, confidence and water safety. It’s such a lovely environment and the instructors genuinely seem to know and care about every child.
Where we swim
Talbot Hotel, Carlow
All lessons take place at the Talbot Hotel, Carlow, with free on-site parking, changing facilities and a comfortable poolside viewing area for parents.
- Portlaoise Road, Carlow, R93 E6C8
- Arrive 10–15 minutes before your lesson
- Free parking at the hotel
Good to know
Questions parents ask us
What age can swimmers start lessons?
We offer programmes for swimmers of different ages and abilities, starting with Seal 1 from around age 3. Contact us and we’ll help you find the right class.
How many swimmers are in each class?
Our group lessons have a maximum of four swimmers, allowing for personalised coaching and faster progression. Star Squad sessions have a maximum of six.
How do I know which level is right for me or my swimmer?
If you’re unsure, book a 15-minute swim assessment (€15). One of our instructors will assess confidence, ability and experience, then recommend the most suitable class, and the €15 is deducted from your term fees if you enrol.
Do you offer private lessons?
Yes. We offer one-to-one, two-to-one and three-to-one private lessons for both children and adults.
Do you teach adults?
Absolutely! Our adult pathway includes Adult Beginner, Adult Intermediate and Adult Advanced classes, as well as private lessons.
What do I need to bring to my lesson?
Swimwear, a towel, goggles (recommended) and a positive attitude! Depending on the class, we may recommend additional equipment.
More questions? See the full FAQ or get in touch →
Ready for the first splash?
Places are limited to four swimmers per group, book your place for the Autumn Term, or start with a swim assessment.