Puddle Ducks

Make a Splash with a Puddle Ducks Franchise

Puddle Ducks is a multi-award-winning baby and child swimming school, offering classes from bump through to age ten. Established in 2002, it’s now one of the UK’s most respected names in swimming education, built on a guided-learning approach that nurtures confidence and skill in every child.

As a franchise owner, you’ll bring joyful, structured lessons to your local community while growing a rewarding and scalable business backed by exceptional support.

Why Invest in a Puddle Ducks Franchise

• Enjoy the freedom and flexibility that comes from running your own business and building a strong team.
• Become part of a network of ambitious and like-minded franchisees and benefit from the dedicated support and expertise of our head office team.
• Build and run a substantial business with significant financial potential. Over 50% of franchisees turnover in excess of £500,000 with top performers achieving in excess of £1m.
• On average, each of our franchisees delivers lessons to over 700 customers a week, creating a consistent and reliable revenue stream.
• Represent an award-winning brand with a trusted national reputation, providing a strong foundation for success.
• Potential for multi-unit ownership, allowing you to expand your business when the time is right.
• Your business will also be a valuable asset for you to sell when the time is right to move on.

“I have been a franchisee for over a decade and I have no hesitation in rating them 5/5! They constantly improve, listen and support us. It’s been a huge adventure, one I’d recommend to anyone willing to work hard and make a difference.” – Jane Bozic – Puddle Ducks Dorset

Why Puddle Ducks Stands Out

More than a franchise, Puddle Ducks is a community of passionate people, changing lives through confidence-building experiences in the water. We combine proven business potential with an award-winning product based on strong educational values. Our guided-learning approach helps children progress naturally through fun, engaging lessons which supports customer retention.

Financial Overview

• Franchise Fee: £34,000 + VAT
• Additional Investment: Additional working capital required for launch
• Financing: Available through UK franchise lending partners (up to 70% of total investment)
• Lifestyle: Full time with flexible hours

A Day in the Life of a Franchise Owner

Your daily role combines leadership, organisation and community engagement. You’ll source local pools, recruit and manage STA-qualified teachers, oversee marketing and customer care and manage business planning with expert support from Head Office. The retail offering provides additional revenue through high-quality swimwear and lesson essentials, ensuring a strong and diversified business model.

“We are so proud to work with a franchise that cares so much about quality and support. From the first call to running our classes, we’ve felt like part of a family. We’ve built a business we love – no regrets whatsoever.” – Suzanne Horton – Puddle Ducks Great Manchester, Worcestershire and Derbyshire & North West Leicestershire

Recognition & Awards

• Winner – Leadership & Culture Award, BFA HSBC UK Franchise Awards 2024
• 5-Star Franchisee Satisfaction for 12 consecutive years
• Ranked 19th in the Elite Franchise Top 100 UK Awards 2025
• Winner – Elite Franchise Rising Star of the Year 2023
• Winner – EWIF New Woman Franchisee of the Year 2022
• Finalist – BFA Lifestyle Franchisee of the Year 2023
• Finalist – Prolific North Champions Award 2023
• Partnered with the British Franchise Association and the Swimming Teachers Association (STA)

Unmatched Support & Training

Franchisees complete a comprehensive training and support programme prior to launch. You’ll attend a four-day Business Training course at Head Office covering finance, marketing, recruitment and operations as well as complete various online learning programmes via our bespoke eLearning platform.

You will have access to our comprehensive online Operations Manuals, franchisee support forums and franchisee events from day one. Your first 12 months include structured one-to-one business support, aquatics visits and quarterly performance calls.

Our bespoke IT system, “Shark,” links with Xero and our website to manage everything from class bookings to accounting and analytics.

“The support from HQ and other franchisees ensures you still feel part of a team whilst running your own business. It’s given me balance, purpose and a career I truly love.” – Jenny Brown – Puddle Ducks West Yorkshire

Who Thrives with Puddle Ducks

Our most successful franchisees are purpose-driven leaders with excellent communication skills, a collaborative mindset and a desire to work hard to grow their business. They act as ambassadors for the brand, building motivated teams and strong local reputations. A growth mindset and a commitment to quality as well as being able to follow the proven model are also key to thriving with Puddle Ducks.

Dive into a Business That Makes a Difference

With national brand recognition, award-winning programmes and unparalleled support, Puddle Ducks offers a unique blend of purpose and profit.

Bring joy and confidence to children in your community and join one of the UK’s most celebrated franchise networks today.