Swimming within the National Curriculum
Swimming and water safety/survival are compulsory parts of PE curriculum between Key Stages One and Two. This is what you should expect your child to learn at school during each Key Stage:
Key Stage One (5-7 years old)
If a school teaches swimming at this stage, pupils should be taught to:
- move in water – e.g. jump, walk hop and spin using swimming aids and supports.
- float and move without swimming aids.
- propel themselves in water using different aids, arm and leg actions, and basic strokes.
Key Stage Two (7-11 years old)
If a school teaches swimming at this stage, pupils should be taught to:
- pace themselves in floating and swimming challenges related to speed, distance and person survival.
- swim unaided for a sustained period over at least 25 metres.
- use recognised arm and leg actions, lying on their front and back.
- use a range of recognised strokes and personal survival skills.
Key Stage Three (11-14 years old)
If a school teaches swimming at this stage, pupils should be taught to:
- set and meet personal and group targets in swimming events.
- use a range of recognised strokes, techniques and personal survival skills with technical proficiency.
Key Stage Four (15-16 years old)
If a school teaches swimming at this stage, pupils should be taught to:
- meet challenges in specific swimming events and water-based activities.
- use advanced techniques and skills with precision, power, speed or stamina with technical proficiency.
