STA has launched a new streamlined Learn to Swim Programme (LSP), which has been designed using a grade system to give pool operators and swim schools greater flexibility. In response to feedback from customers, this exciting new initiative is aimed at participants of all ages and abilities, offering a structured pathway to enhance their aquatic abilities whilst being accessible for all facilities.

Developed in consultation with members and industry experts, the new LSP features 7 progressive grades, which builds aquatic knowledge and skill development within each grade and rewards achievement through the programme.

In line with STA’s ethos of teaching essential skills, the grades focus on stroke development, water safety, rescue skills, diving, and other swimming aptitudes to ensure participants are competent and well-rounded swimmers.

The programme also supports the retention of swimmers by introducing different branches of aquatics such as competitive swimming, water polo, artistic swimming skills and junior lifesaving. This means participants get to try different aquatic skills to decide what they enjoy about swimming and how they would like to progress after the LSP.

Kaylë Brightwell, STA’s Director of Education said: “Our goal as a charity is to “preserve human life by the teaching of swimming, lifesaving and survival techniques”, and the new LSP will further support the delivery of this objective by offering a scheme that is flexible to the needs of a diverse number of swim schools while still maintaining consistent high standards. Uniquely, the LSP also considers facility constraints and how skills can be adapted to promote inclusivity.”

“Logistically, for swim schools converting over to STA, the new grading system will also make it easier for swimming teachers to map over class abilities from other learn to swim programmes,” confirmed Kaylë.

STA’s new LSP is also supported by colourful eye-catching certificates and awards, accompanied by free success trackers and stickers for children and parents to follow progress and stay motivated throughout the programme.

Jodie Davis, STA’s Aquatic Qualification Development Officer, who led the development of LSP also confirms: “As further support for learn to swim providers, we’ve also created a free Teacher Pack to help swimming teachers deliver each of the grades to a consistently high standard, along with a free Support Pack for parents / guardians and swim school personnel so they too can understand the scheme and support children on their swimming journey. A full range of marketing materials are also available to support the programme such as, pop-up banners, posters, a STAnley leaflet dispenser, stickers and children’s activity sheets.”

All of STA’s supporting awards can also be used alongside the new LSP, including lifesaving, personal survival, diving, competitive starts and turns to complement a participant’s development through the scheme and provide additional motivation.

purchase your awards here