A new survey of UK parents with children aged 12 and under, commissioned by STA as part of its International Learn to Swim Week (ILSW) campaign, offers valuable insights into how children today are learning to swim – and the challenges families are facing along the way.

While most parents said they learned to swim through school or at local leisure centres, their children’s experiences differ significantly. The research highlights a clear shift in access, with families now relying on both public and private swim schools to deliver lessons – just 2.8% of respondents said their children are currently learning through school-based programmes despite swimming being part of the national curriculum. This aligns with national statistics showing that nearly one in three children leave primary school unable to swim 25 metres.

STA recognises that while awareness of the importance of learning to swim remains high, awareness alone is not enough.

This sample survey was commissioned to better understand not only where children are learning, but why some are still missing out. In today’s evolving economy, identifying and addressing the barriers – whether physical, societal, or financial – is essential to ensure every child has the opportunity to gain this life-saving skill and learns how to #LoveWaterSafely.

Swimming as a Life Skill, Not a Sport

Nearly all parents surveyed – 99% – agreed that swimming is a vital life skill. However, only 18% said they wanted their child to pursue competitive swimming. Instead, the overwhelming focus was on water confidence and safety.

“I just want my child to learn the basics so they are competent and safe around water,” said one parent.

In fact, many parents expressed interest in non-competitive aquatic pathways. Over 45% were keen on junior lifeguard opportunities for their children, and 24% said their child would like to help teach swimming or become an aquatic assistant.

Barriers to Learning

Despite strong support for swimming, many families said they face challenges accessing lessons.

Among families whose children are not currently learning to swim:

• 63% cited a lack of available lessons
• 20% pointed to cost
• 18% noted time constraints

Nearly half of all parents surveyed also expressed concern that their child is not a confident swimmer, showing a clear need for more accessible options.

What Families Want

The survey results point to a shared desire among families for:

• More affordable and available swimming lessons
• A greater focus on safety and life skills over competition
• Inclusive, flexible options for all children, including those with additional needs

Dave Candler, CEO of STA, said:
“This sample survey reinforces what parents all around the country have been telling us – they want their children to be safe, confident, and happy in the water. Swimming is seen first and foremost as a life-saving skill. Their priorities are clear: accessible lessons, strong water safety education, and inclusive options for every child. But too many families are being held back because of the lack of school swimming programmes, and by limited pool availability and rising costs. These insights are invaluable in helping us better understand their challenges and how we can continue to support them.”

“As one of the founding members of the Swimming Alliance, STA will continue to push for real, practical solutions – including improvements in school swimming and the teaching of water safety education. Swimming lessons shouldn’t be a luxury. Every child, regardless of their economic status, deserves the chance to learn this essential life skill.”