Meet the Instructor

Hello and thank you so much for your interest! My name is Alex Battistella – founder and instructor of Stella Swim School! Ever since I was a young child, I have had an immense passion for swimming. My journey in aquatics began when I was 8 years old, attending my own swimming lessons at Bradford Lions Park. Over my younger years, I worked through the Red Cross Swimming programs and further developed my skills in the water. Once eligible, I joined the leadership programs where I trained Instructing and Lifeguarding ultimately leading me to complete my Water Safety Instructors Certification and National Lifeguarding Certification at the Bradford Recreational Centre. I worked for the Town of Bradford as an instructor and lifeguard for more than 5 years and ventured into teaching travelling backyard private lessons. Over the years, I have worked with many brilliant minds in aquatics which has greatly contributed to my teaching practices.

Back in October of 2023, I moved to Barrie, Ontario into a house with an inground heated pool. I thought to myself, what a great opportunity to get back into aquatics and offer swimming lessons from the comfort of my own home. Thus, Stella Swim School was born! I am super excited to grow this business, build new relationships and memories with swimmers as well as pass along my passion and knowledge!

5+ Years

Alex Battistella

Instructing & Lifeguarding Experience

Qualifications

Certified WSI through Lifesaving Society

Certified in first aid, CPR & AED training

My daughter(8) and son(9) have been attending swimming lessons with Alex for a block of 8 sessions and I am so impressed with the quality of teaching. My son has gone from a child that was very nervous in the water and hated getting his face wet to a child that confidently jumps in and is able to swim without any assistance despite the fact he still doesn't like getting his face wet. My daughter has always loved the water but didn't actually know how to swim... now she does and well let's just say she thinks she's a professional diver. Alex is fun, patient and kind. But most importantly he gets results and is able to teach them and communicate with them life saving lessons that are so important. All this improvement and accomplishments in only 8 sessions. I've signed them up for another block of 8 sessions they are excited to continue journey and becoming great swimmers.

- Teresa P.

Amazing experience with Stella Swim School!! Would highly recommend to all ages! My three year old started out so hesitant and nervous around the water, but Alex was so great at making her feel comfortable, would even sing twinkle twinkle little star in her ear while she worked on her back float. Now in just a short 8 lessons she’s completely changed her outlook on the water. She’s confident and excited to show off her new skills and to continue learning new ones each week with Alex!

- Kayla D.

★★★★★
★★★★★

Testimonials

This is an excellent establishment, my son is 9 and he loves Alex’s training and they enjoy great rapport. Alex is focused with his teaching and covers a lot in the lesson. He is the perfect blend of encouraging and intense during his lesson. My son has made amazing progress in the last 4 weeks. Alex continues to add new techniques in a systematic manner. Highly recommend!

★★★★★
★★★★★

- Santhosh S.

This is my 4 year old son’s first time taking swimming lessons. Alex has exceeded our expectations. My son looks forward to each lesson and talks about how much fun he had afterwards.

- Greg P.

★★★★★

I have nothing but positive things to say about Stella Swim school. When my son first started lessons, he was extremely uncomfortable getting his head wet and would always inhale the water. Alex quickly changed that for him. He not only is getting his head wet but is swimming underwater, jumping in, and getting toys at the bottom of the deep end of the pool. My son has quickly learned all the swimming techniques Alex has taught him in just 4 lessons. Alex makes it so fun for the kids and is so encouraging.

These lessons are worth every penny, and I will be continuing lessons for my son every summer. Alex has made my son a confident little fish in such a short period of time and has eased so much of my motherly anxiety by teaching him such an important life skill. I couldn’t be more thankful I found Stella Swim School. 🐟🏊‍♂️

- Jessica D.