Watermans Swim School
Enabling access to swimming opportunities in the local community
The Swim School now operates four evenings per week, weekends, and school holidays, offering a variety of activities. These include children and toddler swimming lessons, family fun swims, and collaborations with local community groups, such as the Jewish lady’s community group, which hires the pool weekly.
Over two years, the project has established a comprehensive programme with a local Swim teacher, providing much-needed swim time to other local primary schools, including Stambridge Primary School and Rochford Primary School nearby.
The Swim School offers an affordable local option for families, children, schools, and community groups. It has become an integral part of school life at Watermans, fostering friendships and increasing physical activity within the community. The project has also enhanced cohesion across Rochford schools, ensuring all local children gain confidence in water.
The OSF funding was crucial in kick-starting the project, providing the necessary resources to develop a sustainable model. The Swim School now offers a wide range of swimming opportunities, including free access community sessions, nursery and children’s hub links, and drop-in sessions for parents with young children.
Active Essex supported the project through funding, idea development, and assistance in building a sustainable model for the growth of the project.
Key lessons from the project include the importance of having the right people and capacity to engage with the local community. The pool manager and lead swim teacher have become respected community members, driving the project's success. Strong links with local schools and trusted organisations are vital, as is understanding the importance of affordable swimming options for low-income families.
