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Lesson 2 - Safe Pool Entry and Movement

Water Confidence & Play Skills

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Year 1

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Swimming

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35 min

Big Question

How can we move confidently and safely in the water while developing our swimming skills?

Learning Objectives

To safely enter and exit the pool using proper techniques
To develop confidence and movement skills in shallow water
To explore different ways of moving whilst maintaining contact with the pool wall

Key Outcomes

Students will demonstrate safe ladder entry and exit techniques
Students will show increased confidence when moving away from the pool wall
Students will perform a variety of movements in water whilst maintaining balance

Equipment & Resources Required

Swimming Pool

Water depth should allow all students to stand comfortably

Alternative: Teaching pool or learner pool

SAQ Ladders

1-2

Ensure ladder is secure and non-slip

Alternative: Ramp entry if available

Arm Discs

15 pairs

Available for students who need additional confidence support

Alternative: Pool noodles, kick boards

Tag Belts

For students requiring additional buoyancy support

Alternative: Swim vest, armbands

Pool Thermometer

Ensure water temperature is appropriate (29-30°C for beginners)

Alternative: Digital pool temperature display

Key Vocabulary

Ladder entry

The safe method of getting into the pool using the steps, facing backwards

Pool edge

The side of the swimming pool that students can hold onto for support

Hand-to-hand movement

Moving along the wall by moving one hand at a time whilst maintaining grip

Confidence

Feeling safe and secure whilst moving in the water

Water balance

Maintaining stability whilst standing or moving in the water

Skill Progression Pathway

Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going

Prior Learning

Basic understanding of water safety rules
Familiarity with changing room procedures
Ability to follow simple instructions

Current Skills

Safe pool entry and exit techniques
Confidence building in shallow water
Basic movement patterns whilst in contact with pool edge

Next Steps

Submersion activities and breath control
Floating with support
Independent movement in shallow water

Milestone Indicators

Confidently enters pool without assistance

Maintains balance when taking steps away from wall

Shows enthusiasm and reduced anxiety in water

Key Teaching Points

Always face backward when using pool ladder for entry and exit
Maintain two-hand contact with pool wall or ladder for safety
Build confidence gradually - never force students away from wall support
Celebrate courage and effort over perfect technique
Use familiar songs and games to reduce anxiety in water environment
Ensure all students can comfortably touch the pool floor throughout lesson
Model positive risk-taking and growth mindset language

Common Misconceptions

Students may think facing forward on ladder is safer (actually increases fall risk)
Some believe they need to let go of wall completely to make progress (gradual progression is better)
Students might think splashing harder shows more confidence (controlled movements demonstrate better water skills)
Some may believe they can't participate without being 'good swimmers' (all activities designed for beginners)
Students may think moving fast in water is always better (slow, controlled movements build better foundation skills)

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Break activities into shorter segments, provide frequent positive reinforcement, allow for fidgeting within safety parameters

dyspraxia

Break down movements into smaller steps, provide extra practice time, offer additional support during coordination activities

autism spectrum

Provide clear routine and structure, give advance warning of activity changes, offer quiet space if pool environment becomes overwhelming

visual impairment

Use clear verbal descriptions of pool layout, provide tactile guidance for ladder use, ensure consistent voice positioning for instructions

hearing impairment

Use clear visual demonstrations, simple hand signals for instructions, ensure student can see teacher's face for lip reading

physical disability

Adapt entry/exit methods as needed, provide additional flotation support, modify movements within individual capabilities

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Counting steps, measuring distances, spatial awareness, timing activities

Science

Forces in water, floating and sinking, properties of water, body temperature regulation

Geography

Direction and movement, spatial awareness, mapping pool layout

PSHE

Personal safety, building confidence, overcoming fears, cooperation and communication

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move around pool perimeter to maintain visual contact with all students, position centrally during group activities

Observation Focus

Monitor confidence levels, safety technique, water temperature comfort, signs of fatigue or anxiety

Intervention Points

Step in if students show unsafe ladder technique, provide encouragement for anxious students, offer flotation aids as needed

Demonstration Notes

Demonstrate: Always model safety procedures clearly, use slow, exaggerated movements for visibility, maintain positive energy to build confidence

Verbal Cues

•'Face away from the water when using the ladder!'
•'Two hands on the rails - that's perfect!'
•'Take your time - safety first!'
•'Great courage trying something new!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Swimming pool with shallow end (maximum depth 1.2m), clear pool surround, accessible ladder/steps

Surface Check

Pool floor non-slip, ladder secure, poolside clear of obstacles, appropriate water temperature (29-30°C)

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check ladder stability and handrails
•Ensure flotation aids are in good condition
•Verify pool depth markers are visible
•Confirm emergency equipment is accessible

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Slips on wet surfaces
•Unsafe ladder use
•Loss of balance when moving away from wall
•Panic or anxiety in water environment

Risk Mitigation

•Emphasise backward-facing ladder technique
•Maintain constant supervision with clear sight lines
•Encourage gradual progression away from wall support
•Provide flotation aids for anxious students
•Ensure all students can touch pool floor throughout

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all students during entry/exit
•Move around pool perimeter during wall activities
•Stand centrally during open water movement activities
•Maintain proximity to less confident swimmers

Emergency Procedures

Know location of emergency equipment, have clear communication with pool staff, established procedures for evacuation if needed