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Written question asked by Josh Fenton-Glynn (Labour) on Wednesday, 15 July 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 1 September 2026. It was answered by Georgia Gould (Labour) on Friday, 4 September 2026 on behalf of the Department for Education.

Children: Swimming

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what steps her Department is taking to ensure that all children have access to swimming lessons and achieve competency, including lifesaving techniques such as float to live.

Answer

The PE national curriculum requires all primary pupils to be taught to swim competently, confidently and proficiently over a distance of at least 25 metres, use a range of strokes effectively, and perform safe self-rescue in different water-based situations.

These requirements help children understand and respond to water-related risks, including those associated with open water. In addition, revised statutory relationships, sex and health education guidance will ensure that all pupils in both primary and secondary are taught about the Water Safety Code, including floating as a key lifesaving technique. These requirements will come into force from September.

Our reforms to the PE curriculum will ensure there is a clear emphasis on swimming and water safety, and our new PE and School Sport Partnerships Network will bring the expertise of national governing bodies including Swim England directly into schools.

While current data shows disparities in swimming attainment, our new approach aims to ensure all children have the opportunity to develop these vital skills. Alongside a universal offer for all schools, the network will provide targeted support for schools and pupils with the greatest need.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
19251
Session
2026-27
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Children Swimming
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk