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The BSPF calls for more school pools
A new survey commissioned by the British Swimming Pool Federation (BSPF) has shown that a large number of school children in England and Wales do not currently have the opportunity to learn to swim.
The survey which questioned 100 parents of primary school age children, showed that 57 per cent had children who weren’t taking swimming lessons at school while 41 per cent said they had difficulty getting their children into local swimming lessons.
However, 92 per cent thought that swimming as a means of increasing health and fitness and fighting obesity was very important while over two thirds wanted their children to be competent swimmers by the age of seven.
The most frequent class size for those schools that did have access to pools was 20 children, suggesting that, even when access was available, there was limited individual attention available for learners.
Managing director of the BSPF, Allen Brobyn, said: “The survey identifies the strong desire of parents for their children to be effective swimmers. However, current opportunities are failing to deliver.
“We need the government to recognise the need for more school pools in the right places and encourage their provision.”
According to the Office for National Statistics, after walking, swimming is the second most popular physical exercise in England and Wales. Swimming is also ranked as the third most effective exercise after running and rowing in terms of cardiovascular intensity.