Research Shows Children are Being Taken Out of Lessons Before they are Competent in Water

Swim England have recently completed a study that has proved that more than 70% of children are taken out of swimming lessons before they are fully competent in water putting them at risk from getting into difficulty or drowning.

Salford Community Leisure are supporting Swim England with their #LoveSwimming campaign, aiming to inspire and educate more people on the importance of children being competent in water and what water safety looks like.

The research revealed that more than half of children are taken out of lessons before mastering basic but vital skills, such as treading water for 30 seconds or floating to live for 60 seconds – skills that are fundamental to a child’s ability to have great, and safe experiences in the water.

A big shift in perception is needed concerning the safety of children in the water, and this new data surveyed parents’ opinions around what a child needs to do to be safe.

Swimming isn’t just a fun activity; it’s a lifesaving skill. Whether they want to explore in the pool or in the sea, it’s crucial that children stay in lessons until they are competent in water.

As we approach the summer months and children are more likely to be wanting to explore water, ask yourself the question, is your child’s swimming competent enough to keep them safe?

Ensure your child is competent in water

The four water safety competencies are:

• Treading water for 30 seconds
• Float for 60 seconds
• Experience swimming in clothing
• Swimming 100m

We currently have spaces across our Learn to Swim programme so why not give your child the best chance at water safety and get them started or continue their swimming journey today.

View lesson times and spaces and book NOW →