School swimming sessions set to resume across Cornwall following lockdown

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.

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