KS2 pupils are expected to be able to swim 25 metres, yet success rates are hit and miss with some London boroughs holding an 80 per cent failure rate.
Earlham Primary School in east London acknowledges this problem and has adopted a whole school approach to swimming. As a result, the school has seen improvements not only in pupils' swimming achievements but in their behaviour and confidence, creating a positive effect across the curriculum.
The Amateur Swimming Association also offers expert guidance on the class teacher's role at the pool and suggests the best ways of preparing pupils for their first lesson.
