Swim Safe Programme Reaches 59,000 Children in Nine Months

Nearly 60,000 children are safer in and around water thanks to a new swim safe programme launched just nine months ago.

Since its launch in October 2010, the State Kiwi Swim Safe programme has reached 59,298 children, trained 2680 school teachers and provided follow up poolside support to 1233 teachers.

The goal of the Swimming New Zealand programme is to keep children safer in and around water.

“If we can lower the drowning toll through our education programme in primary and intermediate schools, we will be succeeding in our commitment to New Zealand communities,” said Swimming New Zealand national learn to swim manager for schools Belinda Galley.

“In just nine months, Swimming New Zealand staff have exceeded their targets and as a result water safety skills are reaching more children quicker.

“Water safety messages must start from an early age so children learn safety is the priority when enjoying all water-based activities.”

The programme is a collaboration between Swimming NZ, Surf Life Saving NZ, Aquatic Education NZ, WaterSafe Auckland and the Halberg Trust and is supported by State Insurance, regional sports trusts, and community trusts around NZ.

Children have warmed to the programme’s kiwi mascot, Koru, who is making aquatic education fun while ensuring water safety messages remains the focus.

To find out about the State Kiwi Swim Safe programme, visit www.kiwiswimsafe.org.nz

CAPTION: Fiona Hurley, SNZ swim safe advisor, with Porritt Primary School principal Doug Fitzsimons in the Hawkes Bay receiving his State Kiwi Swim Safe certificate for being part of the programme.

Credit: Hawkes Bay Today