Swim England and Adam Peaty launch new Learn To Swim campaign

Swim England has launched a new campaign to highlight the importance of learning to swim, and the part that the Learn to Swim Awards play in a swimmer’s journey.

Our Learn to Swim Awards are one of the top reward and recognition schemes in the world. More than 1.5 million children receive awards each year.

The Awards provide children and young people with confidence, self-worth and a sense of achievement. All of these go towards motivating them to continue swimming.

Olympic champion Adam Peaty was scared of the water as a child. But after great teaching, and recognition though the Swim England Learn to Swim badges and certificates, he overcame his fear of water.

Adam said: “At the start I didn’t like swimming at all. I was completely scared of the water and I hated the feeling of not being able to touch the ground. As soon as I knew I enjoyed the water and started having fun, I forgot about the fear.

“The badges were a very prestigious thing, I always wanted that top Award. I was extremely proud to show the Award to my family and friends.

“I remember seeing them on my wall and I always wanting the next one. But I never thought it would take me to an Olympic gold.”

Reward and recognition is an important part of learning to swim

Swim England Learn to Swim Director Jon Glenn added: “Reward and recognition is an essential part of any child’s learn to swim experience. We have launched our refreshed Awards, making them more appropriate and appealing for children.

“That experience of earning their first Swim England badge stays with children for the rest of their lives. We are delighted to be working with our Learn to Swim providers to make sure that every child gets to enjoy that special moment.”

There are more than 100 Awards available to give to children who are following the Learn to Swim Programme.

These include the core stage Awards that represent significant milestones on the swimming journey, and complementary Awards.