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All NRZ requirements for diploma A B C in understandable language

Quickly see what your child needs to be able to do for diploma A, B and C. Clear table of distances, dress swimming and survival requirements + downloadable PDF checklist.

July 2025
Table of contents

Instant overview in 60 seconds

DiplomaDistances & strokesClothingOther requirements
A50 m school - 25 m backSwimsuit/pantsThrough hoop at 3 m - jump from side
B75 m school - 50 m back - 30 s water kicksShirt - long trousers - sneakersSafety jump - orienteering underwater
C100m varied (breast, back, breast & butterfly)Shirt - long trousers - jacket - shoesRotational jump - 15 s float - hole at 3 m

✔️ Prefer to know immediately where you stand? Schedule a free trial lesson and receive personalised advice.

Why do the NRZ requirements exist?

The National Swimming Safety Council (NRZ) Ensures national uniformity in swimming diplomas. Every pool issuing diplomas is audited at least once a year. If the pool does not comply, it is not allowed to conduct A, B or C exams until the shortcomings are resolved. This guarantees parents that a swimming lessons programme for children provides the same basic security in Amsterdam as in Groningen.

Audit: what does the NRZ audit?

  • Instructor competence (diploma + refresher training)
  • Group size ≤ 1 : 8
  • Water quality log (chlorine 0.5-1.5 mg/L, pH 6.8-7.6)
  • Presence of rescue equipment and AED < 100 m

Diploma A - anhydrous & basic

Main goals

  • 50m breaststroke with smooth breathing
  • 25m backstroke with head still and toes up
  • Looking underwater - through a hoop 3 m away
  • Jump from the side and swim back independently

Tips to get A faster

Two lessons a week speed up the course by about 30%. Consider private swimming lessons If your child needs extra attention or little waiting time.

Diploma B - endurance & clothes swimming

Main additional requirements

  • 75 m breaststroke and 50 m backstroke without intermission
  • 30 seconds of water pedalling with "T" shaped arms
  • Clothing swim with shirt, long trousers and sneakers
  • Safety jump & underwater orientation

Practising at home? Let your child play in the bath with shirt on: that way clothes in water feel less strange.

Diploma C - survival & open water

Extras for complete water safety

  • 100 m varied - school, back, breast and butterfly stroke
  • Rotational jump (mimicking unplanned launching)
  • Floating 15 s on back with jacket and shoes
  • Underwater through hole at 3 m, swimming against light current

In a hurry? With our turbo swimming lessons complete the entire ABC programme in ± 9 weeks.

5 tips to meet requirements faster

  1. Lesson frequency 2× p/w - accelerates on average 4 months.
  2. Buoyancy and breathing exercises at home - 5 minutes a day.
  3. Use a mini-kickboard In bath for leg muscle.
  4. Private lessons For concentration problems or hydrophobia.
  5. Turbo track with solid motivation and sufficient swimming fitness.

Summary & next step

All NRZ requirements summarised: A (anhydrous), B (endurance & clothing) and C (survival). Want to know how far along your child is now? Drop us a free trial lesson schedule or register directly for a teaching package.

Frequently asked questions

Children can start swimming lessons at Zwemclub ABC as early as 4 years old. So they learn to swim safely from an early age.

How big are the groups during swimming lessons?

Our groups consist of a maximum of 6 to 8 children per instructor. This ensures that each child gets enough personal attention.

Is it possible to take private swimming lessons in Amsterdam?

Yes, at Zwemclub ABC we offer private swimming lessons with individual attention, suitable for both children and adults.

On average, how long does it take to get a swimming certificate?

Achieving the A diploma takes 12 to 18 months on average. With turbo swimming lessons, it can be done within 2 weeks.

What is the advantage of turbo swimming lessons at Zwemclub ABC?

Turbo swimming lessons help you or your child get the diploma faster. Ideal if you're short on time or want to get swimming skills quickly.

Can I take a free trial lesson first?

Absolutely! You can always take a free trial lesson with us without any obligation. That way you can find out immediately whether Swimming Club ABC suits you.

Where do swimming lessons take place in Amsterdam?

All swimming lessons at Zwemclub ABC take place at the heated De Mirandabad swimming pool, centrally located in Amsterdam-Zuid (near Europaplein).

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All NRZ requirements for diploma A B C in understandable language