Learn to Swim Stage 1

Swim England Learn to Swim Stage 1 helps to build water confidence, while introducing water safety skills and the basic skills needed to build swimming ability.

Learn to Swim Stage 1 is the first step of the core Swim England Learn to Swim Stage 1-7 Awards.

Learners will develop basic safety awareness, learn basic movement skills and water confidence skills.

They will also be introduced to a structured class setting. Swimmers may use flotation equipment, such as armbands and floats, throughout this stage.

Learn to Swim Stage 1 Video

Click or tap play on the video below to view a summary of Swim England Learn to Swim Stage 1.

The early stages are really important for developing the building blocks for future technique and the skills that are learnt should be fun and enjoyable.

During Learn to Swim Stage 1, children will be encouraged to move around the pool and become confident with water on their face.

Swimmers will achieve the Puffin Award once they complete this stage.

My Learn to Swim App: Harry the Hermit

Once your child has completed Learn to Swim Stage 1, they will be able to unlock Harry the Hermit on the My Learn to Swim app.

Learn to Swim Stage 1 Outcomes

By completing the Learn to Swim Stage 1 Award, swimmers will be able to:

1. Enter the water safely.
2. Move forward for a distance of 5 metres, feet may be on or off the floor.
3. Move backwards for a distance of 5 metres, feet may be on or off the floor.
4. Move sideways for a distance of 5 metres, feet may be on or off the floor.
5. Scoop the water and wash the face.
6. Be comfortable with water showered from overhead.
7. Move from a flat floating position on the back and return to standing.
8. Move from a flat floating position on the front and return to standing.
9. Push and glide in a flat position on the front from a wall.
10. Push and glide in a flat position on the back from a wall.
11. Give examples of two pool rules.
12. Exit the water safely.

Learn to Swim Stage 1-7 Awards

View our introduction to the Learn to Swim Stage 1-7 Awards or use the buttons below to find out more about the individual stages.