My son took swim lessons over the summer. Parents were encouraged to stay during the lesson. It was one on one and any time they took him to the deep end, the instructor was right beside him with a flotation device in case he needed it.
This was gross negligence and the instructor should be charged. I know that accidents happen, but when you are providing a service for children, you must always have your guard up.
Parents, if someone ever says, "No, you cannot be present with your child." leave immediately. RED FLAG. The only instance I could think of is if they are being interviewed by law enforcement or social services to get some kind of answers that only the child can give. Even then, you should be allowed to still be nearby, just not in the same room.