School swimming sessions set to resume across Cornwall following lockdown
Local leisure centres will have a range of Covid-secure measures in place
Last updated 23rd Aug 2021
Schools throughout Cornwall are being offered the opportunity of Covid secure swimming lessons in local leisure centres as lockdown measures ease.
GLL, which operates under the Better brand, is the not-for-profit social enterprise that runs the centres on behalf of Cornwall Council.
Swimming sessions are led by an experienced GLL teacher and enhanced cleaning regimes, reduced pupil capacity and one-way systems to help keep everyone safe.
Sessions are now set to resume from Monday 19th April.
“We’ve been inundated with interest since announcing what’s available, with 50 schools attending a webinar about it.
“Swimming is an essential life skill for children, especially those living in Cornwall. Not only does it reduce the risk of them getting into difficulties in water, it also opens the door to pursuits like surfing, surf lifesaving, kayaking, paddle-boarding and so much more. As part of the national curriculum, it’s also a statutory requirement that every 11-year-old can swim at least one 25 metre length.
“Children have missed out on a lot in the last year and, now that pools are once again re-opening, it’s important to re-build their confidence and get them swimming again.”
St Austell Leisure Centre manager, Amelia Kitchen
Pondhu Primary School in St Austell was one of the first to book slots.
“We can't wait to get our pupils back swimming again.
“It's an important part of our PE curriculum, is great fun and helps contribute to our Pondhu pupils being both happy and healthy.”
PE Coordinator, Richard Martin
The following leisure centres are all taking part in the schools’ programme:
Bodmin Leisure Centre
Bude Leisure Centre
Helston Sports Centre
Launceston Leisure Centre
Liskeard Leisure Centre
Saltash Leisure Centre
Ships & Castles Leisure Centre, Falmouth
St Austell Leisure Centre
St Ives Leisure Centre
Truro Leisure Centre
Wadebridge Leisure Centre
Waterworld Leisure Centre, Newquay
General swimming lessons at all centres will also be resuming once pools are open.