St Francis Swimming Pool

Haywards Heath, West Sussex· RH16 4EZ

SEN Suitability Assessment

Based on analysis of 11 public reviews (Mar 2022 – Feb 2026) · Good confidence

86/100

SEN Score

Based on noise, queues, staff, calm spaces

Breakdown

NoiseGood

Crowds & queuesGood

Staff supportGood

PredictabilityGood

Excellent staff attitudeSensory-friendly environmentAccessible changing facilities neededBook ahead to avoid crowdsPhysical access challengesGreat for confident swimmers

Parent summary

St Francis Swimming Pool has a strong reputation for being welcoming and well-run, with staff who genuinely engage with children of all abilities. The facility itself is newly extended, maintains a comfortable temperature, and tends not to get overcrowded. Most families report their children love attending. Some practical considerations worth knowing: physical access relies on steps rather than a ramp, and the changing facilities are older.

What visitors say

Many visitors praise St Francis for its fantastic staff, brilliant facilities and sensory-friendly environment, with the pool rarely feeling crowded and maintained at a pleasant temperature. Most families report their children love attending. Some visitors have noted that staff understanding can vary, and the changing facilities and pool access (via steps only) may present practical challenges for some families.

Based on a sample of public reviews. Experiences vary - every child and every visit is different.

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From SEN communities

dedicated SEN sessions1-to-1 swimming tuitionsensory classesinclusive teaching

SEN inclusive lessons offered with 1-to-1 sessions available
Dedicated SEN sessions run on Saturday afternoons with up to 13 participants
Warm private pool environment noted as welcoming for swimmers of all abilities
Pre-school and sensory-focused classes including 'Little Stars' 0-3 years programme

Sourced from Facebook community groups, parenting forums, swimming school posts within the SEN community. Individual experiences vary.

Potential challenges

Physical access to the pool is via steps only – no ramp available, so this may not work for some mobility needs
Changing rooms are older and may not suit all families
Photography is not permitted inside, which may be a consideration if visual supports are part of your family's routine

What works

Staff are reported as patient, competent and able to relate well to children of all abilities
Pool temperature is kept at a comfortable level
The venue rarely feels crowded, which can help manage sensory load
New extension suggests ongoing investment in facilities
Children consistently report enjoying their visits

Photos

Facilities

Toddler area

Tips for your visit

Hydrotherapy sessions available Monday and Friday (pay-as-you-go). Private lessons available for personalized instruction. Family swim sessions during school holidays. Website mentions 'welcoming' facility but no specific SEND sensory or quieter session information provided.

Accessibility

Heated indoor pool (31°C). Recent refurbishment including improved changing facilities and new reception area with viewing gallery. Pool dimensions: 18m x 6m, depth 0.9m-1.6m. No specific information available regarding wheelchair access, Changing Places, or accessible changing facilities.

Frequently asked questions about St Francis Swimming Pool

Quick answers drawn from our venue data and review analysis.

Is St Francis Swimming Pool autism friendly?

St Francis Swimming Pool scores highly for autism and SEN suitability, with an overall SEN score of 86/100 from our analysis of parent reviews. St Francis Swimming Pool has a strong reputation for being welcoming and well-run, with staff who genuinely engage with children of all abilities. The facility itself is newly extended, maintains a comfortable temperature, and tends not to get overcrowded. Most families report their children love attending. Some practical considerations worth knowing: physical access relies on steps rather than a ramp, and the changing facilities are older.

Is St Francis Swimming Pool indoors?

Yes. St Francis Swimming Pool is an indoor sports & active in Haywards Heath, so it works as a rainy-day option regardless of weather.

Do I need to book in advance for St Francis Swimming Pool?

Yes. St Francis Swimming Pool requires advance booking. Book through the venue's website or by phone before visiting. Same-day entry without a booking is not guaranteed.

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