A new term at London Swim School has begun, offering children aged between three-and-a-half to 15 years the chance to take part in a great summer holiday activity at local pools such as Acton Swimming Baths and the Gurnell Leisure Centre.

London Swim School, operated by Greenwich Leisure in partnership with Ealing Council and the Amateur Swimming Association, is a comprehensive swimming development programme which not only teaches swimming, but also develops water safety skills and fun for life. Lessons are open to all ages and all abilities. New enrolments are now available for booking, and are issued on a first come first served basis.

The last term attracted more than 3,400 children, including Kay Hutchinson aged 9 from Acton, who was awarded the London Swim School scholarship after being rated the most improved pupil. Consequently, she has been given the opportunity to continue swimming for another term for free. Another scholarship will be available to one lucky child this term.

Anyone wanting to learn more about the London Swim School can find details and enrol online on www.londonswimschool.org. Alternatively you can ask at the reception of your nearest leisure centre or call 020 8998 3241. Enrolment for the next year’s courses will take place from Monday 3 December to Friday 21 December and signing up could be the first step towards winning a scholarship in the future!

Swimming is an essential life skill; the UK sees 421 drownings in rivers, lakes, canals, ponds and the sea in a typical calendar year, while drowning is the third most common cause of accidental death in under 16 year olds.