This study investigated the value that students (n=28), teachers (n=19) and parents (n=122)
have of school delivered swimming lessons. Previous research had focused on the parental
view of private swimming lessons and the motivations which drove parents to pay for
swimming lessons for their children. Previous literature had dismissed the child’s perspectives
as minimal studies included children’s participation; their views needed to be captured. Private
swimming lessons has been deeply studied whereas school swimming lessons required
attention following low attainment levels. Research was conducted utilising questionnaires,
surveys and drawings, to understand the value that each stakeholder placed on school delivered
swimming lessons. The value of school swimming lessons was inferred through motivations
and incentives for participation which were: swimming perceived as a life skill, drowning
prevention and water safety, water confidence and exercise and fitness. Findings revealed
positive perceptions of school delivered swimming lessons, however reasons behind these
differed between the three. The study concluded that all three stakeholders value school
delivered swimming lessons however there is marginalisation of swimming in schools
attributed to the lack of time dedicated to swimming advised within the national curriculum.
Recommendations are twofold; firstly, ensure the provision of swimming in schools is of
adequate standard, secondly that teachers and by extension parents are fully familiar with the
swimming national curriculum to then subsequently work together in ensuring more children
achieve it.