Little River School focus on water safety

Little River School in the Canterbury region have been part of the Kiwi Swim Safe programme since 2011 and this year have taken advantage of another opportunity through this to enhance their water safety teaching.

This year the school’s principal, Christian Couper, wanted to provide professional development for his team around more water safety activities and awareness so arranged a visit from Swimming New Zealand Education Operations Manager Tracey Hickman.

Even though the weather was raining and the pool temperature a bit fresh it didn’t dampen the spirits of the children wanting to see what it feels like to wear a life jacket in water.

Discussions were first held in the classroom on how to correctly fit a life jacket by looking at the size and weight on the inside and where they should wear them. The class talked about where they typically swim and how they make good choices about staying safe.

In the pool the class was surprised at how tiring it can be swimming in continuously moving water and not being able to put your feet down for a rest.

Teamwork was really important during different scenarios and with the pool temperature being a little cooler understanding how the HELP and huddle positions keep you warmer reinforced.

Principal Couper commented that this session was extremely valuable to his teachers and children.