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29 October 2024

Inclusive Swimming – Zambezi Swim School

Inclusive Swimming – Zambezi Swim School
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Tom’s Story

Tom (3) has a rare genetic condition called MORC-2,. The condition has only been identified in the last two years and therefore there is very little information on it. It is understood that Tom canmake progress in his physical development, however it is slow. Tom’smum, Aoife, was interviewed on Tom’s’ behalf.

What was the project aim and what need are Access Sport addressing?

The sessions allow d/Deaf, disabled and neurodivergent children to participate in swimming lessons that are adapted to their needs and obtain the equipment that makes sessions more accessible to them. There is a lack of inclusive swim sessions due to session costs and limited training for swim instructors to be able to teach disability inclusive swim sessions.

What was the project? Think who, what, where, when how?

Zambezi swim school is an existing swim school in the Bexleyheath area. Zambezi was looking to start a disability inclusive swim session, however, did not have the funding to host the sessions or the expertise to upskill teachers and make the sessions accessible.

The inclusive swim sessions have now completed a 10-week block and has proved to be a success with the engaging participants. When speaking to Aiofe, Toms mum, she stated that Tom is a lot stronger since the beginning of the sessions, due to noticing a difference in his head control. This has been acknowledged when Tom swims on his stomach, he is able to lift his head and shoulders for a lot longer than he could at the first session, as well as feeling more comfortable in that position than he did at the start of the sessions.

What did Access Sport do to address this need/fill the gap/and address the issue in this area/sport?

For coaches, pool time, insurance and equipment it costs £160 per week, which only supplies 3 x 30-minute sessions. Zambezi acquired Access Sport and Children’s Alliance support with the cost of the sessions, as well as the aid to upskill existing swim coaches with existing disability inclusion training that Access Sport provide.

Main Outcome Focus

What were the positive changes to the coach?

The swim coach believed being part of an inclusive swim session would be a new challenge. From being a swim teacher for years, involvement in disability inclusive swim sessions was not part of her previous programmes. It is noticed by the swim coach, Jo, that the area where the sessions take place was lacking inclusive activity and expressed that it feels humbling to be a part of something where everyone can be included, as well as watch parents and participants engage in something together.

After completing a 10-week block ofinclusive swim sessions, coach Jo noticed the confidence that had built up in participant Tom. This was acknowledged from seeing the increase in his enjoyment and calm persona when entering the water now, compared to the first session. Due to Tom’s rare condition, it makes adapting a swim session to tailor his needs an extra challenge. By Access Sport providing disability inclusive online trainings, this has allowed coach Joe to further understand the requirements of physical disabilities and how to adapt
them within swimming.

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