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.