LEARNING TO SWIM.

Taranaki Daily News, 13 February 1935, Page 4

LEARNING TO SWIM.

It is very satisfactory to note the enthusiasm that is being displayed by teachers and school pupils in regard to special training in the art or recreation of swimming. Throughout the province swimming is becoming recognised as one of the attributes of a sound education, just as are other forms of physical training. In some towns in Taranaki specially organised efforts are being made this week to extend tuition in swimming and in others the spare hours afforded by the decision to close the schools during the afternoon are being utilised for special training. The large attendance of pupils is the best tribute of appreciation of the efforts being made by tire voluntary instructors and the interest shown in swimming competitions shows that similar efforts in earlier years have been successful. There is no need to convince parents or teachers that to be able to swim is desirable for any school pupil, it is generally recognised that swimming is not only a healthy recreation, but that proficiency may often avert a tragedy.' But for many years, like other good work, it seemed no one’s business to organise general training among young people. That has now been altered, and tuition in swimming is taking its rightful place in the development of a strong and healthy generation. It is pleasing to note the co-operation between local governing bodies and school authorities in placing facilities for the task at the disposal of schools who do not include swimming pools in their equipment. Without their co-operation the scope of the movement would have been much more limited, and the response of the pupils offering is the best justification for what Is now regarded as an important community effort.