Primary school children will spend more time learning to swim through longer lessons starting in September 2025.
As of September, Children in years 3 to 6 will receive 18 lessons of 45 minutes each year, replacing the current model of 26 half-hour sessions.
These changes are part of a broader effort to ensure all young people in the Isle of Man become proficient swimmers before leaving primary school.
Swimming Lessons
Twenty two schools will adopt the new programme at the start of the new academic year in September 2025, with the remainder implementing it from February 2026.
Minister Daphne Caine said: “By offering longer lessons, we can better support young people in developing essential swimming skills that will serve them for life. This approach allows for more focused learning and instruction.
“This positive shift means children will spend more time in the classroom and the pool, with less time spent on the bus and getting changed.”
DESC has worked closely with swimming teachers and schools to develop a curriculum that supports this improved approach.
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