Why swimming matters

Swimming is one of the most important life skills a child can develop. It supports water safety, confidence, co-ordination, fitness and a lifelong connection with the water.

Research from Griffith University found that young children who participated in early-years swimming reached a range of developmental milestones earlier than the general population, including areas linked to physical development, visual-motor skills, oral expression, literacy and numeracy.

Starting early helps children build positive water experiences from a young age. Through regular lessons, swimmers practise listening, turn-taking, breath control, movement, confidence and safe behaviours in and around the water.

Strong swimming skills can also support children beyond the pool, helping them feel more confident in school swimming, water polo, diving, surf skills, recreational swimming and family activities around water.