Swimming Lessons
At BDSC we operate an Amateur Swimming Association (ASA) endorsed swimming scheme called the National Plan for Teaching Swimming (NPTS).
The NPTS has been developed by the ASA to provide a template for learn to swim schemes. It has been designed to assist qualified teachers whose own experience and training will enhance the implementation of the plan. The NPTS is a comprehensive, integrated, progressive teaching programme based upon sound technical and educational principles and provides a standard reference for those responsible for planning swimming programmes.
The National Plan for Teaching Swimming (NPTS) takes the non-swimmer on a journey, from the first splash to developing confidence and competence in the water through to participation in swimming as a lifetime activity.
We generally concentrate on FUNdemental Stages 5 - 7 & Competitive Development Stages 8 - 10. Following is a brief overview:
Stage 5
Developing 'watermanship' through sculling, treading water and complete rotation skills. Performing all strokes for a distance of 10 metres to the given ASA.
Stage 6
Developing effective swimming skills including coordinated breathing across all strokes plus swimming a distance of 25 metres; developing the water safety aspects and understanding of preparation for exercise.
Stage 7
Developing quality stroke technique up to 100 metres, incorporating skills learnt and combining them to develop a linked routine and complete successfully an obstacle course that combines a variety of skills accomplished throughout stages 1 - 7.
NPTS Stages 8 - 10
Competitive Skills - a brief overview: Whilst maintaining correct strokes the emphasis of these stages is towards increasing the swimmers competitive skills through greater exposure to endurance, speed & drill sets. Competitive starts & turns are also practiced in greater detail.
In short the NPTS structure along with the vast experience of our teachers ensures that our swimmers experience
- Development of a wide range of skills.
- Gain water confidence at an early stage.
- Develop high quality techniques through repetition, revision and consolidation.
- Assessment against clearly defined outcomes.
Complementing the NPTS awards we can offer ASA diving, speed & distance awards. Everyone is encouraged to take part in the timed swims during Splash Nights & our annual in house Club Championships. Under the eye of Head Teachers we encourage all swimmers to participate in as many of the 3 sessions available. When appropriate we will also reward the children with structured fun sessions, usually team based competitions suitable for all club members.
ALL our Teachers hold ASA Teaching qualifications with the majority having taught at the club for over five years. Some are also ex-BDSC club swimmers.
Please feel free to ask any questions.
We also welcome anyone interested in helping out poolside, courses and qualifications are available to suitably committed volunteers.
