As the summer holidays approach and families head to pools, lakes, and beaches, water safety becomes more important than ever. To ensure all children have the knowledge and skills they need to stay safe, swimming and water safety are core elements of the National Curriculum in primary schools across England.
Why Water Safety Is Essential
With the warmer months encouraging more time near water, Drowning Prevention Week ā running from 14 to 21 June 2025 and led by the Royal Life Saving Society UK ā is a timely reminder of how crucial it is for children to be educated on water safety. These skills are not only lifesaving but also build confidence and open the door to enjoying water-based activities safely all year long.
What Are Children Taught?
Water safety is integrated into Physical Education (PE) lessons at the primary level. Hereās what pupils typically learn:
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How to swim 25 metres unaided
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Different swimming strokes
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Self-rescue techniques in various water-related scenarios
To reinforce these lessons, schools often work in partnership with expert organisations such as Swim England, the Royal Life Saving Society UK, and the RNLI.
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Additionally, schools may use Personal, Social, Health and Economic (PSHE) education sessions to help pupils understand the risks associated with water and how to make smart, safe decisions.
For older children, the Canal and River Trust, in collaboration with the PSHE Association, has launched lesson resources specifically designed for Key Stage 3 students, ensuring water safety knowledge continues beyond primary school.
Support for Schools
To further strengthen the delivery of swimming and safety education, the Government has confirmed continued funding for the 2025ā26 academic year through the PE and sport premium. This dedicated funding allows schools to:
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Provide additional swimming lessons
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Train staff to improve swimming instruction
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Offer targeted support for pupils who need extra help mastering water safety
Making Water Safety Inclusive
Water safety education is being extended to be more inclusive, thanks to the Inclusion 2028 initiative led by the Youth Sport Trust. The programme provides specific guidance and resources to help children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) learn how to swim and stay safe in the water.
A range of tools and lesson materials are now available through Swim Englandās Inclusion Hub, making it easier for teachers to adapt lessons and provide meaningful learning experiences for every pupil.
Whether itās paddling at the seaside or diving into the local swimming pool, knowing how to stay safe in and around water is an essential life skill. With proper lessons in school and the right support, every child can gain the confidence to enjoy water activities safely ā now and for years to come.
