Swim lessons report drop in enrolments

Learning how to swim is considered vital when growing up in Australia, however VacSwim has reported a 16 per cent decrease in swimming lesson enrolments in the area this year.

The Harvey, Waroona, Binningup and Leschenault programs had only 351 enrolments across all locations for the entire summer period.

This number was down 57 enrolments from last year.

Series one has concluded for the summer and series two is under way, after starting on January 13.

Children aged five to 17 can participate in the comprehensive water safety training.

There are more than 180 locations providing lessons within WA.

The Harvey, Waroona and Leschenault programs are all run at pools, with Binningup being the only beach location.

“We recommend that where possible, children complete swimming lessons in their community where they are likely to swim often, whether this is at a pool, open- water or surf location,” a VacSwim representative said.

Last year, 56,254 children participated in the school-holiday series and in-term public school programs offered by the Department of Education.

VacSwim advised parents who missed out on a spot in the late enrolments at their local centre, to seek swimming lessons for their children at an alternative centre.

The Vacswim representative said they were always looking for swimming teachers and anyone interested should consider applying online.

To be eligible, applicants must be at least 17 years old and have a passion for teaching children and young people vital water safety and swimming skills.

People who were unable to enrol online could contact the Department’s Swimming and Water Safety office on 9402 6412 to ask for a postal form.