News

Education | December 01, 2016

Swimming lessons in Primary Schools

The Nationals Member for Lowan, Emma Kealy MP is calling on the Labor Government to help remote schools pay for lessons and student transport after swimming was made mandatory.

The State Government announced this week that it will require students learn how to swim 50 meters by the time they finish grade six.

“I support the notion of all primary school students learning how to swim, however additional funding is needed to help schools implement the program and to cover travel costs, particular for our remote schools,” Ms Kealy said.

“Many of our rural and regional schools are already constrained by tight budgets and it’s not good enough for Daniel Andrews to not find funding for this important initiative.

“If the State Government wanted to make lessons compulsory, it should also offer funding. For schools in remote areas, the biggest cost will be transporting students.

“In places like Apsley, which has no pool, they’ll have to get a bus to take students to Naracoorte or Edenhope.

“The Premier has no trouble finding $1.3 million for its controversial Safe Schools program, but cannot find a single dollar for this program which will save lives.

“Sadly 43 people have drowned over the past year and it is a reminder to be vigilant and play it safe by the water,” she said.

This week is Water Safety Week running from 28 November – 4 December and aims to raise awareness about water safety.