Swimming lessons are a crucial aspect of summer holiday preparation, according to Swim England's #LoveSwimming campaign. This initiative, fronted by renowned international swimmer and broadcaster Michael Gunning, emphasizes the importance of starting swimming lessons early to ensure children are truly water safe. The campaign highlights a stark contrast between a child who can swim and one who is truly water safe, a distinction that becomes especially significant during family vacations by the water.
Michael Gunning, a testament to the transformative power of swimming, shares his personal experience. He believes that early swimming lessons provided him with confidence, joy, and a lifelong love for the water, a privilege not all children have. Gunning stresses that being truly water safe is not an overnight process but a result of consistent, structured lessons that teach children to stay calm, float, and handle themselves in open water.
The #LoveSwimming campaign, now in its ninth year, is a collaborative effort between Swim England and 10 leisure operators across England. It aims to encourage more people to engage in swimming and to recognize the wide-ranging benefits it offers. The campaign has tackled various issues, including teacher shortages, the life skills swimming lessons provide, mental health benefits, and the importance of starting lessons at the earliest possible age.
Swim England's Director of Community Participation and Health, Helen Marney, underscores the significance of swimming lessons in preventing summer tragedies. She emphasizes that swimming lessons are not just a childhood milestone but a vital safety measure for parents. Marney encourages parents to start swimming lessons for their children now, as water confidence doesn't happen overnight, and the skills learned will benefit the entire family.
The campaign launches on Thursday, May 7, 2026, across Swim England's social channels and partner pools nationwide. Parents can find their nearest swimming lessons at swimming.org/poolfinder. By taking proactive steps now, families can ensure a safe and enjoyable summer filled with memorable moments in the water.
