Curriculum Corner

Swimming Lessons

Australia is a nation surrounded by water, we are blessed with over 12,000 beaches, countless rivers, lakes, and backyard pools. For many of us, enjoying the water is a cherished part of our lifestyle and culture. However, this close connection to water also brings responsibility and we need to ensure that every child has the skills and confidence to be safe around water.

Learning to swim is not just about fun or fitness—it’s a crucial life skill. According to the Royal Life Saving Society, over 80% of Australians know how to swim, and for good reason, swimming is a proven survival skill that can save lives. Sadly, drowning remains one of the leading causes of accidental death among children in Australia, especially for those under five years old. Many incidents occur unexpectedly, even when children have no intention of swimming. 

Swimming also offers lifelong benefits, including improved physical health, mental wellbeing, and social inclusion. It builds strength, coordination, and confidence, and opens the door to a range of recreational and sporting opportunities.

At St Helena’s, we are proud to offer a two-week in-class swimming program. These lessons are more than just a school activity—they are a foundation for water safety and lifelong enjoyment. Through structured lessons, students learn essential water safety skills, develop confidence, and gain the ability to recognise and respond to potential dangers in and around water.

Our program ensures that every child, regardless of background or previous experience, has the opportunity to learn these vital skills in a supportive environment. However, while school-based lessons are a fantastic start, they are just the beginning of a child’s swimming journey.

It is important for parents to continue supporting their child’s swimming development beyond the school program. Regular practice is key to building and retaining strong swimming skills. We encourage all families to enrol their children in after-school swimming lessons or holiday programs such as VacSwim.

Swimming Australia and the Australian Swim Schools Association both emphasise the role of parents in ensuring children have ongoing access to swimming education. Your involvement, whether by enrolling your child in lessons, encouraging practice, or simply showing positive interest, makes a significant difference. 

VacSwim is a long-running Western Australian initiative offering affordable (and now free for summer 2024-25!) swimming lessons during the school holidays. VacSwim programs are available for children aged 5 to 17, held at over 175 locations across WA, including pools and beaches. Lessons range from 5 to 10 days, with qualified instructors guiding children through progressive stages, including water safety and survival skills. 

How you can help your child

Enrol in after-school or weekend swimming lessons at your local pool or swim school.

Sign up for VacSwim during the summer holidays to reinforce and extend your child’s skills.

Stay involved and informed. Ask your child about what they’re learning and encourage them to practise.

For more information about VacSwim and to enrol, visit the WA Department of Education VacSwim page.