Learn to swim. Then keep going.
One pathway from first splashes to squad, rescue awards, lifeguarding and swim-teacher qualifications, in groups of four or fewer at the Talbot Hotel.
Autumn Term 2026 open · Mon 7 Sept – Sat 12 Dec · €17.50 per lesson
The Star Splash Pathway
Every swimmer’s journey, from first splash to future leader.
Water Confidence
Ages 3+ · playful first splashes
Beginner
First independent swims
Foundation
The four strokes begin
Intermediate
Technique & stamina
Advanced
Squad-ready swimming
Star Squad
Junior 9–11 · Senior 12–16
Water Safety & Beyond
Rescue, lifeguarding & teaching awards
Adults are welcome too, Adult Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced classes run every week.
Not sure where to start?
Book a 15-minute swim assessment.
An instructor will assess your swimmer’s confidence, ability and experience, then recommend the right class. The assessment costs €15, fully deducted from your term fees if you enrol.
Autumn Term 2026 · Mon 7 Sept – Sat 12 Dec
This week at the pool
Water Confidence
30 min · Ashleigh Nolan · max 4 swimmers
Book this class →Beginner
30 min · Ashleigh Nolan · max 4 swimmers
Join the waitlist →Group lessons €17.50 per lesson, booked by term (13 weeks · €227.50). No lessons during the October mid-term.
Never more than four in a group.
With a maximum of four swimmers per group lesson, every child gets personalised coaching and real time with their instructor, so confidence and technique grow faster.
A complete swimming pathway
Progress from water confidence and learn-to-swim through water safety, rescue awards, junior lifeguard, lifeguard and swim-teacher qualifications.
Confidence before technique
Swimmers feel safe and confident first, then we build strong technical skills at each swimmer's own pace. Inclusive lessons for every need, including Star Splash Sensory Swim.
Skills for life, taught safely
Every lesson is led by a Water Safety Ireland qualified swim teacher, Garda vetted, fully insured, with lifesaving skills embedded in every stage.
Meet Ashleigh
“There’s nothing more rewarding than watching a nervous beginner grow into a confident swimmer.”
Ashleigh Nolan began swimming at four years old and progressed through lessons to qualify as a Lifeguard, Assistant Swim Teacher and fully qualified Water Safety Ireland Swim Teacher. She founded Star Splash Academy to bring Water Safety Ireland lessons, with a clear pathway beyond certificates, to Carlow.
She’s joined by a team of ten instructors and lifeguards with backgrounds in education, coaching and sport.
Read our story →What families say
Trusted by Carlow families
Our daughter went from crying at bath time to jumping in on her own. The small classes made all the difference.
The instructors know every child by name. You can see exactly what the next step is, it's a proper pathway, not just lessons.
I never learned to swim as a child. At 42, I finally did, without ever feeling embarrassed.
Sample quotes for design review, to be replaced with approved testimonials before launch.
Where we swim
Talbot Hotel, Carlow
All lessons take place in the pool at the Talbot Hotel, Portlaoise Road, Carlow, with free on-site parking, warm changing rooms and a comfortable place for parents to wait.
- 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 my child start swimming lessons?
We offer programmes for swimmers of different ages and abilities, starting with Water Confidence 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 to book?
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 1:1, 2:1 and 3:1 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 should my child bring?
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.