Swimming lessons have returned to White City.
Following a five-month break, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, children can now get lessons once more at the Phoenix Fitness Centre and Janet Adegoke Swimming Pool in Bloemfontein Road.
The lessons are being delivered by Hammersmith & Fulham Council in partnership with Better, the charitable sports enterprise, that runs the borough’s three sports centres.
COVID-safe swimming
Extra safety measures have been put in place for pupils, parents, and swimming teachers to protect against COVID-19.
This includes asking pupils to arrive at their lesson ‘pool ready’ to minimise time spent in changing rooms, staggered arrival times, and a one-way system to and from classes.
Social distancing will be encouraged throughout the building, for teachers, pupils, and any parent or guardian spectators – who will also be asked to wear facemasks.
Lesson plans have also been adapted to ensure social distancing between staff and pupils is maintained, games and activities involving close or actual contact will be avoided and all equipment will be cleaned before and after use. In addition, all swimming teachers have received additional training around the new Covid-secure protocols.
Keeping active, having fun
The council has introduced a phased relaunch of the Better Swim School, with lessons initially focusing on junior swimmers aged five to 16, before expanding to cater for younger children and adults.
“We’re delighted to be able to deliver swimming lessons once again, for those who’ve been itching to get in the pool over the past few months,” said Cllr Wesley Harcourt, H&F Cabinet Member for Environment.
“It’s vital that people keep healthy and active and learning to swim is one of the best ways to do so – as well as being great fun.”
Crucial life skill
“Swimming is a crucial life skill so it’s really important to get our learner swimmers back in the water now, in order to help them continue on their journey towards becoming safe and confident in the water,” said Emma Lewis, National Swimming Development Manager at Better said.
“We’ve been working hard to ensure that we are safer, better, and stronger than ever, so that our swimming lessons will be enjoyable and stress-free.”
Find out more about swimming and using the three Better leisure centres in H&F on our website.
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