Birmingham Olympian Alice Dearing: Swimming lesson gap disappointing

Alex Barrett, of Walsall-based Swimming Teachers Association, said he believes swimming in some schools is not “consistent”

“We advocate for more access, better funding for transport, and for children to have access outside of school and be able to swim with their families as well,” he said.

A spokesperson for the DfE said a new PE Partnership Network would help close the gap for disadvantaged children.

It will bring together schools, local clubs and national bodies like Swim England.

“This means targeted support for the areas and pupils who need it most, so that every child, wherever they live, gets the same chance to learn to swim,” the spokesperson said.

Swim England is working closely with the government to support the delivery of school swimming lessons.

“Swimming is a life skill, not just a sport, and every child should have the opportunity to leave primary school able to swim and be safe in, on and around water,” a spokesperson said.