The Royal Life Saving Society UK aims to provide knowledge and skills that will help people make the right decisions about water safety.

Head of Swimming at Durham School,

Mrs Naomi Fordyce said:

Swimming is such an important life skill and it’s something that I’m passionate about. Almost half of the people who drown in the UK had no intention of going in the water so teaching children what to do if that happens is key. I’m lucky enough to indulge my passion throughout the whole school year because at Bow, Durham School we incorporate personal survival from FS2 and start to include rescue skills from Year 4. 

This year, Drowning Prevention Week is more important than ever, as young people have missed out on a summer of swimming and learning activities, leaving a gap in water safety education.

Mrs Naomi Fordyce said:

Drowning Prevention Week is the perfect opportunity for us to go over old skills, learn new skills and discuss staying safe around water. This year we are holding a Rookie Festival for the first time. It will let the pupils in Years 5 & 6 practice their skills and work as a team to earn points for their Houses.

The Royal Life Saving Society has free online resources that can help give children the skills they need to safely enjoy fun in the water. Find them here: https://www.rlss.org.uk/Pages/Category/water-safety-information