About Aqualight
Our Kids Love Water for Life!
Aqualight was the first baby swim school in Northampton founded in 2002 by Emmaline Kitson BSc who has subsequently gone on to become an international tutor and speaker of baby swimming.
At Aqualight we have developed a comprehensive Baby Swim programme, incorporating the latest techniques from around the world. As Aqualight grew in age, so did our swimmers. We have also developed Toddler, Preschool and Junior classes, and most recently the Squad for our older, competitive swimmers.
We also offer a range of water experiences including Mermaids and Aqua Sensory. We have recently started running occasional adults courses and aqua-aerobics. Keep an eye on our Facebook page for future events.
The Birth of Aqualight
Aqualight was founded in 2002 by Emie as Northampton’s first dedicated baby swim school. With a background in aquatic education and a deep passion for child development, Emie recognised the importance of early exposure to water in a nurturing, natural way. From its humble beginnings, Aqualight has grown into a world-renowned swim school and training centre that provides high-quality, child-centred swimming lessons for all ages.
A Passion for Water and Teaching
Before founding Aqualight, Emie spent years teaching babies to swim in France, immersing herself in the techniques that would later shape the Aqualight method. Her journey into aquatic education began with Birthlight and saw her go on to train with other leading organisations such as the STA (Swimming Teachers’ Association), becoming a respected tutor and expert in baby swimming. Her dedication to the field led her to teach, train, and speak internationally, sharing her knowledge and passion with swim instructors across the globe.
At Aqualight, we are more than just a swim school – we are a community that shares a love for the water. Whether teaching a baby their first gentle float or helping an adult conquer a lifelong fear of swimming, our passion remains the same. We are dedicated to fostering confidence, skill, and joy in the water for every swimmer who joins our journey.
Milestones in Our Growth
Aqualight has evolved far beyond its original focus on baby swimming. We now provide lessons for children of all ages, with many progressing to competitive swimming at the national level. In addition to children’s lessons, we have expanded to offer adult swimming classes, catering to all skill levels from beginners to experienced swimmers looking to refine their technique. Our mission is not only to teach swimming but to inspire a lifelong love of the water in all our students.
Recognising the diverse needs of our swimmers, we are proud to offer specialised classes for children with additional needs. Our inclusive approach ensures that every child has the opportunity to gain confidence and develop essential swimming skills in a supportive environment. We believe that every individual should have the chance to experience the freedom and joy that water brings, regardless of ability.
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A Legacy of Teaching and Innovation
Emie’s journey has been one of continuous learning and contribution to the world of aquatic education. Over the years, she has played an instrumental role in training swimming instructors, developing new methodologies, and representing the UK in global conferences. Some of her key milestones include:
1995 – Began teaching babies to swim in France
2002 – Qualified as an STA & Birthlight Teacher
2003 – Certified Aqua Yoga Teacher and Tutor
2004 – Certified Baby Yoga Teacher
2005 – Became a Birthlight Representative in Sweden
2007-2010 – Represented the UK at international aquatic conferences in New Zealand, Greece, and Brighton
2011 – Became a Moderating Tutor for the STA and conducted research at Northampton University
2012 – Qualified as a Watsu Practitioner
2014-2020 – Trained teachers in China and Taiwan
2022 – Achieved professional development in Aquasoma aquatic bodywork
2023 – Contributed to the STA Disability Manual working group
2024 – Qualified as a Bath Babies Practitioner
Looking to the Future​
As Aqualight has grown, so has our range of offerings. Our curriculum now includes not only baby swimming but also toddler, preschool, and junior classes, as well as competitive squad training for our older swimmers. We also offer unique water experiences such as mermaid swimming, Aqua Sensory sessions, and aqua-aerobics for adults.
At Aqualight, we are more than just a swim school – we are a community that shares a love for the water. Whether teaching a baby their first gentle float or helping an adult conquer a lifelong fear of swimming, our passion remains the same. We are dedicated to fostering confidence, skill, and joy in the water for every swimmer who joins our journey.