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The Big Blue Story

Big Blue Swim School was founded in 2009 by competitive swimmer Chris DeJong, who understood firsthand how learning to swim shapes a child’s confidence both in and out of the water.
How It All Started

A Vision for the Swim School Industry

Big Blue Swim School was founded in 2009 by competitive swimmer Chris DeJong, who understood firsthand how learning to swim shapes a child’s confidence both in and out of the water. Displeased with the typical swim school experience at the time – which usually revolved around cold pools, uninviting facilities, and spectator areas that didn’t accommodate parents well — Chris had a better vision for the industry. That’s when he set out to create a swim school built on a proven curriculum, measurable progress, and a fun and welcoming experience for all.

Big Blue Swim School began with a single location built around this revolutionary approach. Our Olympian-designed curriculum focuses on water safety, skill development and a supportive environment where children can build confidence through consistent instruction and clear progress.

In 2018, Big Blue Swim School began franchising, partnering with entrepreneurs eager to bring this structured approach to swim education into their own communities. Today, our brand continues to expand into new markets while remaining focused on the mission that inspired it from the start.

History

Big Blue's Big Moments

Our Purpose & Promise

We show kids they can do anything by unlocking their full potential in the water.
Learning to swim is one of the most important milestones in a child’s life, and Big Blue Swim School was built around helping kids reach that moment with confidence. Through structured lessons and a supportive environment, children build skills that stay with them long after they leave the pool.

For franchise owners, that purpose becomes the foundation of the business. Every Big Blue Swim School is an opportunity to serve families, strengthen communities and build a business centered around meaningful impact.

Our Brand Values

Our brand exemplifies who we are.
Show Passion
Enthusiasm is contagious. From instructors to franchisees, passion drives the experience we create for every swimmer and family.
Radiate Energy
A positive and energetic atmosphere helps children feel comfortable, confident and excited to learn.
Go the Extra Mile
Whether supporting families or franchisees, we believe great experiences come from a willingness to do more.
Reach Beyond
We constantly look for ways to improve, challenge ourselves and raise the standard for swim education.
Make Teamwork Happen
Strong teams create strong schools. Collaboration between instructors, staff and franchise owners helps Big Blue locations succeed.
Embrace Our Differences
Every swimmer is unique. We celebrate those differences and create an environment where everyone feels supported and encouraged.
Our Happy Franchise Partners
  • Lesson Buddy is great… The parent portal that's connected for our families is super great, quick, easy and effective for rescheduling, seeing billing and getting their real time progress that we're skill-checking and evaluating during their lesson. They're getting that real time update.
    Erica Kowal - Franchisee

Meet Our Team

Big Blue Swim School is led by a team with extensive experience in competitive swimming, franchising, operations and business leadership. Their combined expertise helps guide the brand’s curriculum, support franchise owners and expand the Big Blue Swim School system across the country.
Stylized blue whale floating in the sky, held aloft by three colorful balloons and a cloud.
Ready for Your Big Moment?

Contact Us Today to Get Started