The American International School of Cape Town (AISCT) is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its brand new Aquatics Center. A phenomenal addition to our beautiful Cape Town campus, the new center is designed to enhance the AISCT student experience, offer cutting-edge features, and open new doors for physical education, swim training, and competitive opportunities for our students.
One of the few school pools in South Africa built to international standards, the new Aquatics Center reflects AISCT’s commitment to providing every student with access to world-class facilities that support their health, confidence, and personal growth. It is not just a facility; it is a statement about the kind of future AISCT is building, one where every student has access to the tools they need to thrive.
Why the Aquatics Center Matters
The new AISCT Aquatics Center is part of the school’s broader commitment to whole-child development, supporting not just academics but physical health, emotional well-being, and confidence-building experiences. Thoughtfully designed and built to international standards, the facility gives students of all ages a safe, structured space to learn, grow, and challenge themselves.
Whether your child is taking their first steps into the water or preparing for competitive swim meets, the Aquatics Center offers meaningful opportunities at every level. Through guided lessons, team training, and recreational swim, students gain more than just physical strength; they develop focus, resilience, and a sense of belonging. It is a place where wellness and skill-building come together to support their growth both in and out of the pool.
The new Aquatics Center has been designed with world-class standards in mind, combining advanced technology, safety-first engineering, and eco-conscious practices. From the quality of the water to the comfort of the swimmers, every detail has been carefully considered
Features & Facilities: What Makes the New Aquatics Center Exceptional
The new Aquatics Center has been designed with world-class standards in mind, combining advanced technology, safety-first engineering, and eco-conscious practices. From the quality of the water to the comfort of the swimmers, every detail has been carefully considered.
Advanced Water Quality & Safety
What was of utmost importance in this pool project was the health and safety of the learners using the pool. At the heart of the Aquatics Center is its state-of-the-art filtration and hydraulics system. The pool volume circulates every five hours, ensuring at least four complete water cycles within a 24-hour period. This not only keeps the water sparkling clear but also guarantees the highest levels of hygiene and swimmer safety. Sanitation is maintained in strict compliance with international chemical usage standards, ensuring that the release of gases such as trichloramine remains well within regulated limits.
What Is Trichloramine?
Trichloramine is a by-product of the reaction between chlorinated disinfectants and organic matter introduced by swimmers (like sweat, sunscreen, or bacteria). In high concentrations, it can cause eye irritation, respiratory discomfort, or the strong chlorine smell often associated with older pools. By implementing advanced water treatment protocols, the Aquatics Center ensures safe, comfortable air and water quality for all learners and staff.
Perfect Pool Temperatures
Temperature control is a key comfort feature. The Olympic-size main pool is consistently maintained at 26°C, providing an ideal environment for both training and competitive swimming. In comparison, the kiddies’ pool is kept at a warmer 32°C, ensuring younger swimmers can enjoy a safe and comfortable aquatic experience.
World-Class Lighting
The facility’s lighting system has been installed in accordance with FINA (International Swimming Federation) standards. Over starting platforms and turning ends, light intensity never falls below 600 lux, ensuring visibility, safety, and compliance with international competition requirements.
Learning Beyond the Pool
Supporting its role as a true hub for aquatic education and training, the new development also includes seven modern classrooms attached to the facility. These classrooms provide flexible spaces for theory-based learning, workshops, and coaching sessions, seamlessly integrating academic and practical training.
Sustainability & Certifications
Beyond performance and safety, the Aquatics Center was developed with a strong emphasis on eco-friendly design. By optimizing circulation systems, regulating chemical use responsibly, and adhering to international environmental standards, the facility minimizes its ecological footprint while maximizing swimmer well-being.
The Ripple Effect: What It Brings to Our Community
For AISCT students, the Aquatics Center opens up a world of opportunities. It enables the formation of swim teams and the hosting of inter-school competitions, in addition to providing access to youth swim lessons in Cape Town right on campus. Students from early childhood through Grade 12 will benefit from enhanced PE classes, after-school swim programs, and even learn-to-swim safety sessions.
“The long-awaited Aquatics Center represents an exciting and significant step forward in our school community. It opens up opportunities for our students to grow in confidence, develop lifelong skills, and discover the joy of aquatic activities, swimming in particular, in a world-class facility. We’re thrilled with this new space and what it will mean for our student-athletes, coaches, and all who will benefit from the experiences and learning it will provide.” -Robyn Klaasen, Sports & Activities Director
“In my 20 years at AISCT, there has often been talk of and always a need for an indoor swimming space. Now it has finally been built and so well worth the wait. It is such an amazing addition to our campus.” -Helen Petersen, Admissions & Marketing Director
Experience AISCT for Yourself
Choosing the right school is one of the most important decisions a family can make, and at AISCT, we believe you should be able to see the difference for yourself. We invite prospective families to visit campus, tour the new Aquatics Center, and explore how our facilities, programs, and community come together to support student growth at every stage.
The Aquatics Center is just one example of AISCT’s commitment to providing a well-rounded, internationally minded education in a nurturing, future-focused environment. If you are looking for a school that invests in your child’s whole development, academically, physically, and emotionally, we encourage you to schedule a visit, speak with our Admissions Team, and discover what makes AISCT unique.