Why Children Learning to Swim Matters More Than Ever

Recent research highlighted in a BBC News report revealed a concerning reality: a significant number of children in England are leaving primary school without being able to swim confidently.

According to research carried out by the Amateur Swimming Association (ASA), around one-third of children are unable to swim 25 metres unaided by the time they finish primary school. Even more concerning, many children reported never having received school swimming lessons at all, despite swimming being part of the national curriculum for children aged seven to eleven.

Swimming is not just another sport or hobby. It is a life-saving skill.

The ASA has long described swimming as the only curriculum subject capable of directly saving lives. Learning to swim gives children the confidence, awareness, and practical skills needed to stay safer around water, whether at the pool, beach, lake, or on holiday abroad.

The national curriculum states that pupils should be taught to swim at least 25 metres unaided before leaving primary school. However, research responses gathered from local authorities showed that only around two-thirds of children were reaching this target.

Why are children falling behind in swimming?

There are several reasons why some children struggle to meet the required swimming standard. Limited pool access, reduced lesson availability, funding challenges, and disruptions to school swimming programmes can all contribute to lower participation.

For some children, confidence is also a major factor. Without regular practice and supportive teaching, nervous swimmers may find it difficult to progress in larger school lesson environments.

This is where structured private swimming lessons can make a real difference.

The importance of regular swimming lessons

At SwimExpert, we believe every child should have the opportunity to become a safe, confident swimmer. Personalised swimming lessons help children progress at their own pace, allowing instructors to focus on individual needs, technique, and confidence-building.

One-to-one swimming lessons can be especially effective for:

• Nervous beginners
• Children lacking water confidence
• Swimmers needing extra support outside school lessons
• Children refining technique and stamina

With consistent instruction and encouragement, many children develop skills far more quickly than they would in larger group settings.

Swimming is a skill for life

Learning to swim is about far more than passing a school target. Swimming improves confidence, fitness, coordination, and safety awareness while opening the door to a lifelong activity that can be enjoyed at any age.

Every child deserves the opportunity to feel safe and capable in the water. By prioritising children learning to swim early, parents can help build skills that last a lifetime.