About our school

Who We Are

We support the community through drowning prevention. When I, Donna Morel started WETS in 1996 in Kelowna, my motivation evolved from my aquatics background, my passion for making a difference and my entrepreneurial spirit. I saw the a need for a private swim school in the Okanagan after observing how many children struggled with learning to swim in big pools with large class sizes and parents were frustrated with limited scheduling options.

Today, WETS offers year round, semi-private, learn to swim programs that feature small class sizes, convenient scheduling options, make up classes and multi-level instruction catering to active and busy families.

At WETS, your child can learn to float + swim in a safe, nurturing and FUN environment!

Personalized Instruction & Convenient Scheduling

Individual Attention, Personalized Instruction + Convenient Scheduling

With only 2 students in a class, our instructors provide the individual attention and personalized instruction each child needs to learn to swim in sync with their unique personality + strengths. Our instructors are trained how to enrich every student’s water experience by engaging their sense of sight, sound and touch to tune into their comfort and challenge zones to help build confidence and overcome any fears about their aquatic abilities.

Our state-of-the-art swim facility offers a safe and inviting environment for children to discover the joy of swimming. With experienced and certified instructors, we provide high-quality swim lessons that are both fun and educational. Whether your child is a beginner or looking to refine their skills, our personalized approach ensures they will develop confidence and become proficient swimmers. Dive into a world of aquatic adventures at WETS!

Donna Morel

Founder & CEO

Donna Morel is the visionary creator and owner of WETS. With over 55 years of teaching and instructor training experience, Donna has meticulously designed the WETS Swim Lesson program, drawing from her vast expertise and innovative techniques. Inspired by her deep-rooted commitment to water safety, and long family history in aquatics, Donna’s program replaces traditional swim levels with achievable progressions, ensuring a results-driven and progressive approach to swimming education.

Prior to her pioneering work with WETS, Donna honed her skills as an award-winning Red Cross Master Instructor Trainer and Water Safety + Life Saving Instructor. Her tenure as a former competitive speed and synchronized swimmer provided invaluable insights that she seamlessly integrates into the WETS curriculum.

As the driving force behind WETS, Donna leads her team to revolutionize the field of aquatic education, with the forthcoming launch of the WETS Instructor program poised to further elevate the standards of swim instruction. Through her dedication and innovation, Donna Morel has transformed the lives of her students and instructors, fostering a love for swimming in her students and empowering individuals to hone their swim instruction skills, all with the goal of supporting the community through drowning prevention.

Explore her learn to swim programs, instruction videos, water safety presentations and success stories at www.wets.ca, find her on twitter @DonnaMorel and become a fan at www.facebook.com/WeTeachSwimmingAt WETS, we are proud to have Coach Scott leading our team of dedicated instructors as Head Coach. With over 10 years of experience in teaching children how to swim, Coach Scott brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to each lesson. His passion for water safety and commitment to creating a positive and fun learning environment make him the perfect coach for your child's swimming journey. Trust Coach Scott to guide your little ones towards becoming confident and skilled swimmers.

Meet Our Staff

Our staff is safety certified and continues education regularly. We have a dedicated group of people who strive to ensure your swimmer has an excellent experience.

Jim

Jones

Mr. Jones has worked at Blue Turtle Swim School for 5 years and has serves as the Head Coach for the School Age Classes.

Megan

Whitman

Mrs. Whitman is our Front Office Coordinator and has been with Blue Turtle Swim School for 3 years.

Jane

Johnson

Mrs. Johnson is our Head Coach for the Toddlers classes and been teaching children to swim for over 20 years.

Maria

Renaud

Ms. Renaud is our Assistant Coach and helps with all classes as needed.

Want To Join Our Team?

We offer a rewarding and fulfilling work experience for swimming instructors and support staff. Join our team and make a positive impact on children's lives by teaching them essential water safety skills. As part of the Blue Turtle team, you'll have the opportunity to work in a supportive and friendly environment with a flexible schedule. Enjoy the benefits of competitive pay, professional development opportunities, and the joy of helping children become confident swimmers.