Enhanced ‌Swimming Lessons in Tanba Sasayama City

Tanba Sasayama⁢ City Board‌ of ‍Education ‍has introduced a new approach ⁣to swimming lessons, utilizing the⁤ heated ‌pool at Nishiki Sports Park to cater⁤ to ​schools ‌with aging pool facilities and high management costs.

This initiative, which began as⁢ a model project ⁤in 2023, has been expanded to ‍four schools in 2024, providing a “triple win” experience for students, ⁣teachers, and ⁢staff.

Background

Traditionally, ​swimming ⁤lessons were held in each​ school’s pool, focusing on developing physical ‍abilities and water safety. However, many school‍ pools have become dilapidated, making renovations necessary⁤ but expensive.

The Solution

The city decided⁤ to ⁤utilize the Nishiki Sports ⁣Park heated pool,‍ a city facility, to ​hold school swimming lessons. ⁣Although traveling by bus takes time, the benefits of ‍this approach have been significant.

Benefits

• Improved swimming abilities ‌and water safety for students
• Reduced burden of pool management for​ schools
• Constant water temperature, providing a⁤ comfortable swimming environment
• Specialized instruction from experienced staff
• Improved student levels according to their swimming abilities

Implementation

Lessons are⁣ held in two lanes at the edge of​ the heated swimming pool, ‌divided into three sections: advanced, intermediate,⁢ and beginner classes. One staff member takes turns instructing each class, with teaching staff ​divided to provide support.

Feedback ​and Future Plans

The superintendent of education visited Oyama Elementary School and observed ‍a class, noting the students’​ improved swimming abilities and⁣ the staff’s enthusiasm. The⁤ principal expressed relief that the school ‍no longer has to ⁢manage pool facilities.

The city aims to continue improving and expanding this initiative, providing a “triple win” experience for all involved.