Press Release

New disbilities swim scheme launched

Tuesday, August 5 2008

The Swimming Teachers' Association (STA) has launched the new Penguin Series – the Official Water Safety Programme for People with Disabilities, which encompasses two distinct programmes, the Emperor Series and Rockhopper Series.

Developed in conjunction with the help of a number of schools for people with disabilities and in partnership with Star College Cheltenham, the new Penguin Series recognises that the aquatic environment can benefit people with disabilities, not only physically, but emotionally, socially and educationally too. The approach is holistic, recognising that the inherent nature of water provides a perfect environment for people with disabilities.

The Emperor Series offers a series of distance awards to enable the swimmer to increase their strength and stamina by swimming in their own adapted style from 5 meters to 400 meters; whilst the new Rockhopper Series focuses on developing traditional learn to swim and water safety skills by using a flexible mix of lessons, activities and rewards throughout its nine progressive levels.

Irene Joyce, STA's Technical Swimming and Aquatics Officer said: "The Penguin Series has been designed to give teachers a structure and attainable goals that will stimulate their students and enhance their time in the aquatic environment."

The Penguin Series is now the most comprehensive and progressive swim scheme for people with disabilities and its development signifies the STA's continued commitment to making the water a safe and enjoyable environment for all people, irrespective of age or ability.