Why should my child learn to swim?
Swimming is not only a great way of keeping fit, but it is also a valuable step to increase the safety of children in and around water. Although water can be fun, it can often be dangerous, so by equipping a child with the skill of swimming, the child will grow up with the knowledge of what to do and what not to do if situation occur. This is a point recognised by the government, which has meant that swimming is a part of the National Curriculum. There is no escape from water and by developing the child’s ability to swim, they will enjoy themselves safely.
How do I get my child on the swim scheme?
To apply for a place, leave your child’s name and contact details on our waiting list application form and hand it to Reception. If you require any further details please contact your site’s swim co-ordinator.
Does it matter if I join the scheme half way through a course?
No. We place children in the session appropriate to their ability. We treat and progress children as individuals and not as a group.
What equipment is needed?
We provide arm bands and floats for children learning to swim to aid confidence in water. Swimming hats can be purchased at Reception along with a range of other equipment.
How do children progress? We have adopted the ASA’s National Teaching Plan and our own Penguin scheme that provides clear guidance on what children need to achieve before progressing. Although we do assess children regularly. This is done as part of the lesson and children are not placed under pressure at any time.
How structured are the lessons?
Lessons are structured but, like in the early days at school, play is a key feature in beginner’s lessons. When children are young it can be hard for them to concentrate for long periods of time and play makes it more interesting. Play also encourages confidence in the water that in turn aids progression. Lessons become structured as children develop skills and confidence in the water.
Is half an hour a week enough for children to learn to swim quickly?
Yes. We have found, through many years experience that young children learn very quickly with only half an hour in the pool each week. However it can help if you take your child swimming in between lessons to practice skills learnt within their lesson and maintain their swimming enthusiasm.
What happens when my child is ready to leave the Learn to Swim Scheme?
When children have progressed to our later sessions we discuss with parents what can happen next. Although many parents enrol their children with the sole aim of learning to swim, to complete their badge scheme they must train with the local swimming club or another aquatic activity.
