SEND Swimming Lessons at swim
At swim, we understand that Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) covers a wide and varied spectrum. Every child is different, and inclusion and diversity in swimming lessons doesn’t mean delivering the same experience to every child, it means adapting where needed so that all children feel supported, safe and able to succeed.
We strive for inclusivity at swim, we do have many children with additional needs learning within our programme. We also have teachers with SEND themselves, bringing lived experience, empathy and understanding into the water.
We spoke with one of our amazing teachers, Leah, about her experience.
Leah’s Journey into Teaching
Can you tell me a bit about your background and how you started teaching?
“I originally trained and worked as a primary school teacher, with a burning passion for sport and physical activity. Being in the classroom helped me to understand how children learn, how to adapt lessons and how important confidence and encouragement are. Being a swimming teacher allows me to combine teaching with physical development and an essential life skill, as well as moving into a more practical, active environment while still doing what I love: supporting children to grow, achieve and feel proud of themselves. Being visually impaired myself, I struggled in the water at first as a child, so I understand how important it is for children to feel supported and encouraged when learning something new.”
Do we have SEND children in our lessons?
“Yes, we do have children with additional needs and disabilities in our lessons. They’re taught within our core programme, with adaptations made where needed to support them and help them feel comfortable and included.”
At swim, our lessons are structured with small class sizes and clear routines. Where needed, we make reasonable adjustments to communication, support or delivery so children can access the lesson in a way that works for them.
Are children able to join our lessons even though they aren’t SEND specific?
“Absolutely. Our lessons are inclusive and designed so that all children can learn together through the core lessons, with small adaptations where needed. Having children with different needs in a group doesn’t take away from others’ progress, in fact, it often builds empathy, patience, and teamwork.”
How do you manage a class of 6 if SEND children are in the group?
“I manage the class by keeping lessons well-structured, with clear routines and expectations. I break activities into small, achievable steps and give clear demonstrations. If a child needs extra support, I adapt the task rather than the whole lesson, so everyone stays engaged. I also keep communication calm and positive, which helps all children stay focused.”
What advice would you give to parents who are unsure about their SEND child going into swimming lessons?
“I’d encourage parents to take that first step and have a conversation with us. Swimming lessons can be hugely beneficial for SEND children, not just physically, but for confidence and independence. We work at the child’s pace and celebrate progress in all forms. It’s okay to be nervous, but we’re here to support both the child and the parents.”
What do you love about teaching?
“What I love most is seeing small wins, a child putting their face in the water for the first time, floating independently, or overcoming fear. Swimming is such an important life skill, and it’s really rewarding to help children feel safe, confident, and proud of themselves.”
To book a taster lesson to see how your child finds our swim environment, visit https://www.swim.co.uk/taster-session/