SWIMMING

Every year, selected year groups will take part in swimming lessons at Ken Martin Leisure Centre. A coach transports the children and staff to and from the venue.  

Swimming is a compulsory part of the school curriculum. Absence from swimming lessons will only be excused on medical grounds and requires a letter giving reason for the absence. Please make sure your child brings their full swimming kit in the morning in a suitable bag. If they arrive at school without it, we shall call you to bring it in for them.

SWIMWEAR

Girls are expected to wear a one-piece costume, and boys to wear swimming trunks or close fitting, thigh length swimming shorts (without pockets). Knee length shorts with pockets are not permitted. Swimming caps are optional. Long hair must be tied back if a cap is not worn.

GOGGLES

Goggles are to be worn only if a consent form from parents is received to authorise their use. If you would like your child to wear them, please complete a Local Authority form which school will provide to you and return it BEFORE the date of the lesson.

Children who bring in goggles to wear on the day without prior parental consent, will not be allowed to wear them.

There is also a strict no jewellery policy. All jewellery and piercings must be removed before swimming. If your child can remove piercings themselves they will be asked to do so and put them away until after the lesson. If your child cannot remove them, you must remove them for them BEFORE they come to school. If not, we shall call you to come up to school to remove them.

If you need a goggles form, please ask the school office for a copy.

SPECTATORS

On the grounds of Health and Safety and Safeguarding, it is school policy that parents do not watch swimming lessons;

• There is a danger that children can be distracted by their parents watching them
• The Leisure Centre is open to members of the public; therefore, school staff and leisure centre staff have to be vigilant about anyone who is unknown to the school.

The School Swimming Service has assured us that many schools have this policy in place. 

VOLUNTEERS

If we ask for volunteers, it is extremely important they attend every session. Last minute cancellations are not acceptable, so if you know you potentially have a risk of having to cancel due to work or looking after a little one, please do not volunteer. If we do not have enough staff, swimming has to be cancelled. Volunteers must come alone, it is not permitted to have bring babies or other children with a school during swimming lessons.