Springwood Aquatic and Fitness Centre will now be able to offer learn to swim classes for children with disabilities and those from culturally diverse backgrounds as part of its regular swimming classes.
Create a free account to read this article
or signup to continue reading
Twenty-four instructors boosted their skills during a two-day Austswim access and inclusion course late last month.
The course, delivered by Austswim presenter Carolyn Cherry, was theoretical and practical and included safety and legal issues, communication and perception, planning, delivering and reviewing classes, and skills for movement through the water.
Currently, the centre offers a weekly 'Stingray' learn to swim class for children with special needs.
But now children with disabilities will also be able to attend the regular learn to swim classes.
"It's a really good opportunity for staff to get some more skills and for the community to have access to normal learn to swim classes," said acting leisure and visitor services manager Justine Sinclair.
"And it will help those people have independence who have physical disabilities."
Ms Sinclair said the course was part of the centre's commitment to preventing drownings, and encouraged parents to enrol their children in swimming classes, especially in the lead-up to summer.
The course was made possible thanks to a Department of Sport and Recreation participation grant.