At IGS, swimming lessons are about more than learning to swim. They give students the opportunity to build confidence in the water, develop new skills and learn to support one another.

From April to November each academic year, swimming forms part of the PE timetable for all students in Grades 3–6, with one lesson each week. Whether they are just beginning to find their feet in the water or are already confident swimmers, every student is encouraged to progress at their own pace.

Every child progresses at their own pace

At IGS, swimming is an important part of our PE programme and reflects our wider approach to education: recognising each child as an individual and supporting their development in and beyond the classroom.

“Our aim is not simply to teach students the correct swimming techniques. More importantly, we want them to feel confident in the water, develop practical swimming skills and learn how to stay safe,” explains PE teacher Mr Adi.

For Mr Adi, good PE teaching starts with understanding that every child is different. Progress looks different for each student, and success is not simply a matter of grades or how quickly they master a particular skill. What matters most is their willingness to try, persevere and improve.

The pool is divided into shallow and deep sections to accommodate different ability levels. Two specialist coaches work with more experienced swimmers in the deep end, helping them refine their technique, while Adi supports beginners in the shallow end as they gradually become more comfortable in the water.

There is no pressure to move on before they are ready. Some students are still building their confidence, while others are working on their technique. Everyone has the opportunity to develop their skills at a pace that suits them.

Setting their own challenges

Last Friday’s swimming lesson focused on students who already had some swimming experience, giving them the opportunity to set their own challenges and assess their progress.

Rather than asking everyone to complete the same task, Mr Adi allows students to choose their preferred stroke and decide how many laps they feel ready to swim.

“This approach allows children to set their own goals instead of measuring everyone against the same standard,” Mr Adi explains.

Sean was delighted after completing the challenge he had set himself. “I can decide how many laps I swim. It’s awesome! It feels really good to reach my target, and I love cheering my classmates on!”

For Mr Adi, however, success in the pool is about more than completing a set number of laps. He also looks at how well students understand and follow safety rules, whether they persevere with the goals they have set themselves, and how they treat and encourage their classmates.

Learning that goes beyond the pool

Some of Mr Adi’s most rewarding moments come from watching students become more comfortable in the water and grow in confidence. He is equally pleased to see students encouraging one another, with cheers and words of support often heard around the pool.

Respect, teamwork and perseverance are an important part of every lesson. Students learn to follow pool rules, be mindful of their surroundings and look out for one another. Along the way, they develop not only their swimming skills but also a greater sense of independence and responsibility.

These lessons extend beyond the pool. The confidence to try something new, the willingness to persevere and the ability to work with others are just as valuable in the classroom and in everyday life. In this way, swimming at IGS supports our wider aim of helping students become confident, independent and considerate young people who are ready to engage with the world around them.