Swimming

At Fazakerley Primary School, we are committed to ensuring that our pupils receive a comprehensive and well-rounded education, which includes meeting the national physical education (PE) requirements. As part of our dedication to promoting physical health and well-being, our Year 3 pupils participate in weekly swimming lessons. These lessons not only support the government's PE curriculum but also help fulfill the requirement that all primary school children must be able to swim at least 25 meters by the time they leave Year 6.

The government has outlined specific physical education requirements to ensure that children develop essential life skills and maintain an active lifestyle. A key component of this is swimming, a vital skill that promotes physical fitness, coordination, and safety. The national curriculum mandates that all primary school children should be taught to:

  1. Swim competently, confidently, and proficiently over a distance of at least 25 meters.

  2. Use a range of strokes effectively (such as front crawl, backstroke, and breaststroke).

  3. Perform safe self-rescue in different water-based situations.

By starting swimming lessons in Year 3, Fazakerley Primary School ensures that pupils have ample time to develop these skills progressively. Early exposure to swimming not only increases their confidence in the water but also allows them to build the endurance and technique needed to meet and exceed the 25-metre requirement by Year 6.

Weekly swimming lessons offer numerous benefits to our Year 3 students, including:

  • Skill Development: Regular lessons provide consistent practice, enabling students to master swimming techniques and build stamina.

  • Water Safety: Learning to swim is essential for personal safety. Students gain confidence in the water and learn crucial skills for self-rescue.

  • Physical Fitness: Swimming is an excellent form of exercise that enhances cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles, and improves overall fitness.

  • Mental Well-being: Swimming has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, contributing to the overall mental well-being of children.

  • Team Building: Swimming lessons often include group activities that encourage teamwork and collaboration among students.