Swimming and the national curriculum

Swimming and water safety is a statutory element of the national curriculum for physical education in England. All primary schools must provide swimming and water safety lessons in either Key Stage 1 or 2. This means that every 11-year old child should leave primary school with the skills to keep themselves safe while enjoying swimming with friends and family.

Each pupil is required to be able to do the following:

• Perform safe self-rescue in different water based situations
• Swim competently, confidently and proficiently over a distance of at least 25 metres
• Use a range of strokes effectively, for example, front crawl, backstroke and breaststroke.

At Langwith Bassett all children take part in swimming lessons during KS2, with Y5/6 pupils attending from Sept - Feb and Y3/4 pupils attending from Feb to July.

 

The SAFE Rule

The SAFE rule is very important. This reminds us to Stay Away From the Edge. We know it can be exciting being near the water but standing too close to the edge can be dangerous. It is a good idea to always take one step back to make sure you are safe.

Foundation Stage - This Rosie and Jim episode is all about staying safe near the water and includes a simple song about taking one step back that you could sing.

The Water Safety Code

As you grow older you may learn to swim and find new ways to enjoy the water. Water can be dangerous, no matter how strong a swimmer you. You should not swim in open water and it is very important to follow The Water Safety Code:

1. Spot the dangers - Look out for any potential hazards. This could include slippery rocks, sharp objects or machines.

2. Take safety advice - Look out for any warning signs around reservoirs, canals and rivers to help you stay safe.

3. Go together - When you are going to be around water, go with friends or a family member. Don’t visit the waterways alone.

4. Learn how to help - If you know what to do in an emergency, it will be easier to stay calm.

Key Stage 1 & 2 - This video from the Canal and River Trust explains the Water Safety Code in more detail, supports you to spot hazards and shares advice on what to do in an emergency.

 

If you see someone in struggling in the water you should…

1. Shout for help from a nearby adult.

2. Call 999 - ask for the Fire Service. Explain your location, use road names, bridge numbers and describe landmarks.

3. Never get into the water.

4. Encourage them to stay calm and float.

This video from the Cambridge Fire and rescue Department tells the story ‘Jet and the Water Rescue’ and how Jet the Dragon helped a friend who got in to trouble when playing near a river.

 

Activities 

Water safety challenges can be played on the Canal and River Trust website