Families in Stone will soon have another way to make a splash, with new baby and toddler swimming sessions starting next month.
The lessons are part of Baby Squids Staffordshire and Nantwich, a new franchise led by local swim teacher Margarita King, who will be running classes in Stone on Wednesday mornings. The sessions will take place at The Swim Cave, on the Whitebridge Industrial Estate.
From pool mum to swim teacher
Margarita’s connection to the water started when she took her son swimming as a four-month-old back in 2019.
“Spending time in the pool as a first-time mum taught me many things,” she said.
“The importance of routine, swim safety, and the bond that comes from time together. Social circles are hard to form when you’re a parent – everything changes and you find a new identity.”
When lockdowns arrived, plans were paused. But after qualifying as a Level 3 swim teacher in November 2024, Margarita decided to turn her passion into a profession. Her background in special educational needs (SEN) support also shapes her approach, helping her build sessions that feel safe, inclusive and fun for every child.
“Theatre is in my blood,” she added, “so expect songs, smiles and plenty of engagement both in and out of the pool.”
Growing network of family swim schools
The franchise marks the 16th Baby Squids branch in the UK. The swim school was founded by Laura Skilton in Hampshire and now has more than 60 teachers running around 500 classes each week.
Laura said:
“Margarita’s friendly manner is perfect for supporting families as they help their children learn the importance of water safety from an early age.
These early years are vital for building true water confidence. Her energy and intuition will make a real difference in her classes.”
Baby Squids aims to help every child gain confidence and a lifelong love for swimming through gentle, supportive teaching.
A welcome addition for local families
The new sessions in Stone are already attracting interest from parents keen to find small, friendly classes close to home. With plans to add more pools across Staffordshire and into Cheshire over the next year, Margarita hopes to make Baby Squids a place where families can learn, play and connect.
Classes begin in November 2025, with bookings and details available via the Baby Squids Staffordshire & Nantwich website.
