About the Club
Who We Are
Harwich, Dovercourt & Parkeston Swimming Club (HDPSC) is a community-focused, competitive swimming club based at Dovercourt Swimming Pool.
We provide a clear, supportive pathway for swimmers of all ages — from Learn to Swim, through Development and Potential squads, to our highest-level Performance pathways.
We are affiliated with Swim England East Region, and our swimmers regularly compete at Club, League, County, Regional and Masters levels.
Our vision is simple:
To create confident, skilled and motivated swimmers in a positive and inclusive club environment.
Our Training Pathway
HDPSC offers a structured progression designed to help swimmers grow at their own pace:
Learn to Swim – Groups & Groups+
Building confidence, water safety and fundamental skills.
Working through Stages 2–7 of the Swim England Learn to Swim Framework.
Development
Refining technique, developing turns, starts and basic race skills, and taking part in club time trials and competitions.
Potential
Strengthening aerobic capacity, pace clock skills, and readiness for regular competitive swimming.
Junior Performance
Swimmers aiming for County and Regional qualifying times, working on higher-level race skills, pacing and set endurance.
Performance
Our top competitive squad, targeting County, Regional and National level swimming, with advanced conditioning and technical refinement.
Club Squad
For swimmers focusing more on fitness, enjoyment and long-term swimming without the competitive commitment.
Masters & Competitive Masters
Adult swimmers training for fitness, technique, personal goals or competitive Masters events.
Our Values
- Inclusivity: Every swimmer matters and every journey is valued.
- Progression: Clear, measurable development pathways at all levels.
- Team Spirit: Encouraging a supportive, positive club culture.
- Excellence: Helping swimmers reach their full potential — from first widths to national finals.
- Enjoyment: Swimming should be fun, motivating and rewarding.
Our History
Harwich, Dovercourt & Parkeston Swimming Club has deep roots in the local community, with origins dating back to the early 1900s.
The club began life connected to the Great Eastern Railway before expanding to serve the whole community, growing through sea galas, swimming carnivals, and the establishment of the first local pool in 1924.
Today, HDPSC continues to build on a legacy of participation, performance and community involvement.
Meet the Team
HDPSC is run by a dedicated group of:
- Swim England–qualified coaches
- experienced teachers
- committed volunteers
- safeguarding and welfare officers
- an elected committee overseeing governance and development
Visit our full pages for more information:
Join Us
Whether you’re looking for your child’s first club experience, aiming for county championships, or wanting to swim for fitness as an adult — HDPSC has a place for you.