Both Burgess Hill & Haywards Heath had groups (Dolphins & Starfish) for Swimmers (both children and adults) with special needs.

Following the merger of the two clubs, in 2007, these sessions have continued, with swimmers aged from 8 upwards involved.

Our aim was to give youngsters with special needs the opportunity to swim (or learn to swim) in a club setting.

As most swimmers would need the benefit of 1:1 assistance, over the years, many helpers have given their time and dedication to the Starfish and Dolphin groups.

Some swimmers were pupils at Court Meadow and Chailey Heritage School, others came from main stream schools and around Haywards Heath. This mixed ability approach has always worked well. The swimmers help and learn from each other.

Dolphins and  Starfish also takes part in Award Schemes for proficiency, distance swimming, water skills etc. Some of our swimmers also participate in regional and national swimming galas, often with spectacular results.

Dolphins swim at Olympos Burgess Hill and Starfish swim at Olympos Haywards Heath

To join Dolphins or Starfish please email