Children's swimming lesson programme to run over the summer in Aberdeenshire for the first time
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Youngsters learning to swim across Aberdeenshire will have the chance to make up for lost time with the continuation of Live Life Aberdeenshire's Learn to Swim programme throughout the summer.
Normally the Learn to Swim programme only runs in school terms, with intensive lessons offered at local pools throughout the summer holidays.
But in response to customer demand, the current temporary Learn to Swim programme will continue over the summer months.
It was introduced to replace the full Learn to Swim programme in Aberdeenshire, which was suspended due to restrictions in venue and teaching capacity as a result of the pandemic.
A spokesman for Aberdeenshire Council said: "The temporary programme is currently delivering around 3000 lessons per week, compared to around 9000 a week pre-Covid.
"Capacity to deliver lessons continues to be reduced due to social distancing in facilities and less instructors being available.
"Many are involved in delivering other sport and leisure activity throughout the area, with others redeployed to support vaccination centres and working in health and social care environments.
"It's hoped continuation over the summer will make up for some of the time children have lost in the pool due to local lockdowns and help to deal with an increasing waiting list.
"It will provide continuity for participants, allowing them to achieve speedy progression and thus create available space for others as participants move up through ability levels."
Particular concerns have been raised from parents whose children were taking lessons at Turriff Swimming Pool, where extended works mean that the pool will remain out of operation for most of the summer and for whom, alternative lesson locations have not materialised despite assurances from the council that lessons would be offered at alternative locations.
Customers are being provided with updates directly through the Learn2 system and via email and are asked to check emails and HomePortal for updates.
For more information on the Temporary Learn to Swim Programme and contact details for local swimming coordinators, see: http://bit.ly/TempSLP
Intensive children’s swimming lessons will also be available at a number of local pools – please contact local pools or see their Facebook page for more information.
