Swim Wales launch Nofio Ysgol i Gymru with Welsh Government
The WSA was delighted to attend the launch of Nofio Ysgol i Gymru as Welsh Government joined Swim Wales at Penlan Leisure Centre in Swansea.
Nofio Ysgol i Gymru is a landmark national partnership offering a universal school swimming programme across Wales and ensuring every child has the opportunity to learn a vital life skill.
Commencing this coming September, the groundbreaking initiative represents a major milestone for the health of the nation. It will directly support all 22 local authorities and 1,200 schools across Wales to deliver structured, high-quality swimming and water safety education.
As the national governing body for aquatic activity and sport, WSA member Swim Wales will spearhead the initiative. The organisation will handle day-to-day programme management, robust data collection, and regular reporting to the Welsh Government to ensure maximum impact and accountability.
By unifying resources on a national scale, the programme aims to break down geographic and financial barriers, giving all Welsh children the tools they need to stay safe, confident, and active in and around water.
Speaking at the Commonwealth Games this summer, First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth commented:
“Swimming is an important life skill which helps children stay safe and builds their confidence in and around water.
“Beginning the roll-out of this programme is one of this government’s first 100 day commitments. I’m really pleased that children will begin to benefit from September and I look forward to the programme reaching every school in Wales by 2028.”
Cabinet Minister for Culture and Sport, Heledd Fychan, has also stated:
“This programme is about more than swimming. It is about building confidence, keeping children safe around water, and giving every pupil in Wales a foundation for an active, healthy life.
“Every child in Wales deserves the chance to learn to swim, regardless of where they grow up. What’s more, they may take the plunge into an activity that brings many people joy and is great for your long-term health and wellbeing.”
The WSA was thrilled to be present as the initiative was officially launched in Swansea, joining members Active West Wales, Freedom Leisure, Actif Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire County Council in support of the programme.
Fergus Feeney, Swim Wales CEO, has also commented:
“We are incredibly proud to partner with the Welsh Government to manage and deliver this vital national programme, through our well-established links with all 22 local authorities in.
“Swimming is a foundational skill that unlocks a lifetime of health benefits and safety awareness. Our team is fully equipped to manage the day-to-day operations, track progress through rigorous data collection, and deliver a gold-standard programme that serves every community across the country.”
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