Schools throughout Cornwall are being offered the opportunity of Covid secure swimming lessons in local leisure centres from Monday 19 April.

GLL, which operates under the Better brand, is the not-for-profit social enterprise that runs the centres on behalf of Cornwall Council. Swimming sessions are led by an experienced GLL teacher and enhanced cleaning regimes, reduced pupil capacity and one-way systems to help keep everyone safe.

“We’ve been inundated with interest since announcing what’s available, with 50 schools attending a webinar about it,” said St Austell Leisure Centre manager Amelia Kitchen.

“Swimming is an essential life skill for children, especially those living in Cornwall. Not only does it reduce the risk of them getting into difficulties in water, it also opens the door to pursuits like surfing, surf lifesaving, kayaking, paddle-boarding and so much more. As part of the national curriculum, it’s also a statutory requirement that every 11-year-old can swim at least one 25 metre length.

“Children have missed out on a lot in the last year and, now that pools are once again re-opening, it’s important to re-build their confidence and get them swimming again.”

Pondhu Primary School in St Austell was one of the first to book slots.

“We can't wait to get our pupils back swimming again,” said PE Coordinator Richard Martin. “It's an important part of our PE curriculum, is great fun and helps contribute to our Pondhu pupils being both happy and healthy.”

The following leisure centres are all taking part in the schools’ programme:

  • Bodmin Leisure Centre
  • Bude Leisure Centre
  • Helston Sports Centre
  • Launceston Leisure Centre
  • Liskeard Leisure Centre
  • Saltash Leisure Centre
  • Ships & Castles Leisure Centre, Falmouth
  • St Austell Leisure Centre
  • St Ives Leisure Centre
  • Truro Leisure Centre
  • Wadebridge Leisure Centre
  • Waterworld Leisure Centre, Newquay

General swimming lessons at all centres will also be resuming once pools are open.