use cheap, thin suits, often less than 3 mm thick, not providing enough insulation for most months and not enough flotation to be safe. Some even use 'shorties' which is rightout dangerous for inexperienced kids. None provide hoods. Their suits come in only 3-4 sizes, which results in an ill fit for many. They can't dress small children. As a result, children experience severe cold, while their short swim diminishes their overall experience. Slim children are disadvantaged most. Seafriends provides optically corrected masks for the short- and long- sighted (-8.0 to +4.0 diopters) at no additional cost. It was a $8000 investment, appreciated by those who need it. With 6 mask sizes, there is always a mask that fits. None of the rogue operators provide these special masks, which leaves many children unable to see properly, which can only spoil their experience. These operators have one size fits all, resulting in severe discomfort for many. Seafriends has extensive facilities for washing and sterilising gear. At night the gear is forcefully dried to make sure no germs remain alive. Rudimentary sub-standard facilities with a high risk of cross-infection. Seafriends have a classroom for 60-70 with slide- and overhead- projection, and marine ecosystem aquariums . A lecture at Seafriends involves all the above and is inspiring, while attuned to the children's level and interest. Improvements made every year. Rogue operators do not have these facilities, which limits what they can do, and consequently the children's overall experience. Children stay outside in the