If your swimmer has started competing, you’ve probably heard the term “Licensed Meet.” You might even have seen codes like “Level 3 – LC” on a meet notice and wondered what it all means.

For many families, joining the Skills Academy is the entry point into the world of club swimming. It can feel a little different from lessons — structured sets, squads, lane etiquette, Bluefins kit.

From Lessons to Squads — The Next Step Swimming lessons give children a fantastic foundation. They learn the strokes, gain water confidence, and start to enjoy the rhythm of regular swimming. But many families reach a stage where lessons alone no longer feel enough. Lanes can be crowded, age ranges are wide, and the opportunity for progress starts to feel limited.

At Bluefins, every swimmer belongs to a squad system matched to their commitment, ability, and ambition. Training with others on similar pathways creates the energy, challenge, and support needed for progress and enjoyment. Our 16 squads span the full pathway, from Skills Academy through to National Performance. Alongside the Competitive Pathway, we offer a Fitness Pathway for swimmers who value health, enjoyment, and lifelong participation.

If you’re asking yourself “How do I join a swimming club near me?” — you’re in the right place. Swimming clubs are the beating heart of Britain’s aquatic community. They bring together children, teenagers, and adults in structured pathways that combine fitness, technique, competition, and fun. Whether you want to join a swimming club for fitness, explore competitive swimming, or try Masters swimming for adults, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.