Swim England

A nation swimming

Swimming should be at ‘heart of agenda’ of new Government action plan

Swimming should be at the ‘heart of the agenda’ of a Government action plan to give children greater opportunities to access physical activity.

The new School Sport and Activity Action Plan was outlined by Education Secretary Damian Hinds, Sport Minister Mims Davies and Minister for Public Health, Seema Kennedy.

The plan aims to encourage youngsters to access at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day.

It sets out a range of actions to strengthen the role of sport within a young person’s daily routine, explain how teachers and parents can play their part, and promote a joined-up approach to physical activity and mental wellbeing.

Jane Nickerson, Swim England Chief Executive, welcomed the announcement and the inclusion of Government’s ongoing commitment to ensuring children learn to swim and are safe in and around water.

Committed to playing our part

She said: “Taking part in swimming and water safety is a great way for children to get fit, improve their mental wellbeing and learn the skills that could even save their life.

“Swimming has been part of the national curriculum since 1994, yet despite this, far too many are still leaving primary school unable to swim, particularly those from more deprived areas.

“This must change.

“We’re committed to playing our part and that’s why at Swim England we’ve produced resources for schools to help them confidently teach children how to swim and be safe in the water.

“We encourage all schools to sign up to the Swim England School Swimming Charter and we’ll continue to work with the Government and Ofsted to ensure that all children are leaving school set up for a lifetime of enjoyment in the water.”

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