British Swim School Continues Rapid Expansion with New Dallas-Fort Worth Location
May 5, 2023
The Nation’s Premier, “Learn to Swim” Franchise Offering Classes Began April 19
British Swim School, the nation’s leading “learn to swim” franchise company, continues its growth across North America with the opening of its newest franchise location in Fort Worth. Classes are being held at the 24 Hour Fitness located at 2701 Halloran Street. Texas native Keith Berdine will own and operate the new location, along with his wife Amanda who serves as the aquatic director. Keith is a veteran who had also spent nearly 20 years working as a sales manager in the automotive industry. The father of three and his wife began looking at franchising options. Several months ago, Keith was involved in a major car accident. Fortunately, he made it out without any serious injuries but says that moment of his life flashing before his eyes signaled that he needed to make a move and do it now.“Life is here one day and gone the next and I just really felt like I needed to make an imprint on my community,” Keith explained. “I want to work with kids and teach them survival skills. That accident was the turning point that I was meant for something greater, and I want to give back.”
For over 40 years, British Swim School has been dedicated to teaching water survival skills by teaching infants, children, and adults of all ages the skills needed for water acclimation, water survival, and stroke development. Its mission — ensure that every person, regardless of age or ability, has the opportunity to become a safe and happy swimmer.
Across the nation, 11 people die every day from unintentional drownings, with nearly 4,000 deaths occurring each year. Research shows that participation in formal swim programs, such as those offered by British Swim School, can reduce the risk of drowning by 88% among children who are most at risk for deaths caused by drowning. However, the risk of drowning isn’t limited to children: a Red Cross survey found that more than half of all Americans (54%) either can’t swim or don’t have the basic swimming skills needed to save themselves in the event of a water emergency.
When thinking about his own children and his childhood, Keith admitted that he wished he had gone through water safety training and learned the importance of swim survival. The Berdines are opening this British Swim School with the hope to impact and save lives in their community.
“With my love for teaching and children it was easy to put my passion behind the mission to prevent drownings through education and swimming lessons with a survival first approach especially since Texas is #1 for pool drowning deaths.” said Amanda
“Keith and Amanda epitomize what we’re looking for in our franchisees,” said Ashley Gundlach, President of British Swim School. “They have children and grandchildren, so they understand the worry parents have about their kids when it comes to the water. Plus, Keith grew up in this area so the desire to give back to his community will help them succeed moving forward.”For more information about British Swim School, visit www.britishswimschool.com/dfw-west/.
