Skills for life

Founder and owner of Fulton Swim School, Daniel Fulton shares why starting lessons young is more important than ever.

Daniel, why are you so passionate about swim safety?
We are so lucky in New Zealand to have beautiful beaches and waterways to enjoy. Swimming is a big part of the New Zealand culture, so it’s really important for our families and communities to know how to be safe in and around the water. The recent SWIMSAFER Report commissioned by SWIM Coaches and Teachers New Zealand, found that NZ families aren’t prioritising learning to swim. 43% of people interviewed said their children don’t attend lessons and over half were unsure whether they themselves had the necessary swimming skills to help save someone in trouble in the water. What’s even more worrying, is new data analysis and predictive modelling from Water Safety New Zealand, reveals there could be a potential national tragedy unfolding, with projections showing that we're expected to experience our most devastating year of drowning fatalities by the end of 2023. It’s heart breaking and in many cases, preventable. 

How early should parents be looking at getting their little ones enrolled in lessons?
Most swim schools now have programs for children as young as 3 months. For infants especially, it also supports their development and fine motor skills and provides socialisation (for parents as well as babies). The earlier the better I say!

What should parents be looking for when choosing a centre?
Do your homework and check out a few swim schools either via their social media, website or by visiting their swimming pools to see if it's the right fit for your family. Fulton Swim School has developed an incredible progressive curriculum over our two decades that fosters confidence, growth of the individual, and progression. We love celebrating success with awarding ribbons, certificates and of course ringing the famous Fulton Swim School bell when a child achieves something spectacular. 

BABIES   *   TODDLERS   *   PRESCHOOL   *   SCHOOL AGE   *   SQUADS   *   ADULTS

Secure your spot now to learn the life skill of swimming and how to be safe in and around the water.
Lessons from 3 months old! Year round swimming (including holidays), amazing facilities, no harsh chemicals, low class ratios, make up classes, and importance on progression and celebrating achievements.

Book now mentioning this article, for 50% off swimming lessons for infants aged 3-5 months.

A safety message for parents this summer from Fulton Swim School: All children should be under active supervision (this means within arm’s reach!) in and around water. Happy holidays and stay safe!

Centres in Botany, Patumahoe, Papamoa, Puni, New Plymouth and Upper Hutt.

Find out more about lessons at your closest Fulton Swim School at fultonswimschool.co.nz.