Learn to swim program makes a splash at Charlestown
Published on 23 October 2024
An innovative learn to swim program for international women is making waves at Charlestown Swim Centre.
The Splash of Colour Swimming program offers a free, 12-week, culturally sensitive course for recruits of all ages, many of whom have never had the opportunity to swim.
“For many of our participants, they’re the first people in their family who can swim,” Splash of Colour Swimming Founder and Program Lead Ennia Jones said.
“It is an empowering experience to do something no one else in your family has been able to do. Our participants go from fearful to confident.”
The Splash of Colour Swimming concept kicked off in February 2023 and has expanded to include classes in Lake Macquarie, Maitland, the Central Coast and Newcastle.
Nine nationalities are represented in the current Charlestown Swim Centre course, including Kenya, Zimbabwe, India, Peru, China, Venezuela, Rwanda, Nigeria and Colombia.
“The response has been absolutely amazing,” Mrs Jones said.
“The skills and results vary, but one consistent piece of feedback we get is their increased confidence in and around water.”
“Swimming is not just a recreational activity but a vital life skill that enhances safety, health, social integration and cultural empowerment for CALD adults.”
Lake Macquarie City Council Coordinator Leisure Operations Paul Stone said demand was growing across all of Lake Mac’s learn to swim programs.
Total attendance at learn to swim classes increased from 51,370 in 2022-2023 to 60,142 in 2023-2024.
“You’re never too old to learn,” Mr Stone said.
“We offer a range of programs to overcome any barriers to learning to swim, including classes for adults, people with disability and private lessons.”
“We’re really proud to have partnered with Splash of Colour Swimming to target the CALD community, and the positive feedback and excellent results speak for themselves.”
Find out more about learn to swim classes and enrolments at swim.lakemac.com.au.