Get in: School Swimming

Only 35% of children in Wales leave primary school able to swim.

Before the pandemic, the figure was closer to 65%. Over the last six years, this has steadily declined. If this trend continues, thousands of children will enter secondary school in Wales unable to stay safe in and around water.

For many children, Primary school will be the only opportunity they have to learn.

Your school can help turn the tide.

Schools play a life-saving role in reversing this trend. By reviewing your swimming programme and supporting pupils to engage in lessons and water-based activities, you can help them gain the essential life skill they deserve.

The GET IN campaign connects you with resources and guidance that can help.

Take action in your school

Review your School Swimming Programme to help ensure every pupil can progress

Share our colouring-in poster competition with pupils (resources available below)

Display campaign posters in classrooms and corridors (resources available below)

The Swim Wales Nofio Ysgol Framework

To support schools in delivering high-quality swimming provision, Swim Wales, in collaboration with Welsh Government, local authorities, Sport Wales and Water Safety Wales, developed Nofio Ysgol, the national framework for School Swimming in Wales.

Formalises national standards and methodology for teaching swimming

Provides a structured teaching framework for schools and providers
Focuses on water competence, water safety and physical literacy
Encourages learning through play and inclusive practice
Aligns with the Learn to Swim Wales framework to ensure continuity

The framework ensures that lessons are safe, fun, purposeful and progressive, while supporting teachers to deliver engaging aquatic experiences that contribute directly to the Four Purposes of the Curriculum for Wales.

Swim Competency Target for All Pupils by Year 7

Swim Wales’ recommendation is for all pupils to meet the criteria for the Nofio Ysgol Gold Award, as a guided minimum standard of capability and confidence in swimming and safe self-rescue, by the
time that they finish Year 6 of Primary School.

The recommendation is that every learner in Wales will be able to complete the following
components:

Meet our campaign mascot, Gethin the whale!

Gethin is our friendly mascot who helps inspire children to dive in, build confidence, and discover the joy of being in the water.

Below, you’ll find downloadable posters, classroom materials, and colouring sheets for children to enjoy. You can also get involved in our poster competition for a chance to win a cash prize for your school’s swimming programme.