19-08-16 Swimming instruction expands to primary schools nationwide
The success of a pilot programme that included swimming lessons in physical education classes in Attica primary schools has opened the way for the expansion of the programme to schools nationwide.
The pilot programme was conducted at eight Attica swimming pool facilities, with 23 primary schools’ third and fourth grade classes participating. Thirty teacher-trainers with expertise in swimming instruction were hired.
As of the upcoming 2016-2017 school year, third graders at primary schools throughout the country, which are at a distance of no more than 25 kilometres from the swimming facility, and in some cases fourth graders, will be able to sign up for swimming instruction.
Between 10-12 students will be selected each year for the three-month course. In cases in which weather has impeded completion of the programme, it may be extended beyond the three-month period.
Each lesson will be two hours long, including travel time back and forth from school. The programme plan has been approved by the Institute of Education Policy. One school class, accompanied by the physical education instructor, will attend each lesson.
Each swimming class will be conducted by three tenured teachers, and/or un-posted graduates of physical education academies, with a specialisation in swimming instruction, so as to establish a 10:1 student-teacher/trainer ratio.
The teacher accompanying the class will be present and oversee the swimming lessons and, along with the teachers–physical education graduates, will also supervise students in the locker rooms and after the lessons.
The objectives of the swimming programme are:
- To gain experience and knowledge of the rules of safety and hygiene
- Learning to handle extraordinary or emergency situations in and around an aquatic environment
- Learning how to avoid drowning
- Developing self-confidence in the water
- Practising basic swimming skills
- Acclimating children to an aquatic environment through games and recreation
- Developing cooperation and socialisation skills that contribute to the formation of well-rounded personalities
The encyclical detailing the programme, in Greece, may be seen at the link below:
