Primary Aquatics Water Safety

Laois Water Safety is inviting schools to participate in the Primary Aquatics Water Safety (PAWS) programme which replaces the "Swim/Challenge" certification schools previously participated in. The aim of the programme is very simple:

Every Child a Swimmer - Every Swimmer a Lifesaver!

The PAWS syllabus forms a component part of the Physical Education strand of the official Department of Education primary school curriculum. As a further support to this programme Irish Water Safety will deploy a development officer to promote and support the nationwide rollout of this programme.

The PAWS programme will work as follows:

Phase 1: Aquatic Organizer In-service Training, a 3 hour training course to upskill participating schools

Schools wishing to participate in PAWS programme will need to have a trained a trained Aquatic Organizer on staff to deliver key aspects of the programmes.

We strongly recommend that a minimum of two/three staff from your school attend as it is important to ensure continuity should staff be unavailable for various reasons.

Phase 2: Training for swim teachers to deliver programme in the swimming pools.

Phase 3:  Laois PAWS commenced Autumn 2007. At the end of every six/eight week cycle of swimming lessons participants will be examined to determine their level of competence. 

For more information contact:
Ann Marie Maher
Tel: 057 8664038

Ringbuoy Competition

The winners of the 'Design your own ringbuoy Competition' were 5th class pupils from Scoil Bhríde, Rathdowney. Their design 'Our Fishy Friend' was chosen from the many enteries by Laois Water Safety Committee and were on display during the opening of Portlaoise Leisure Centre, which was attend by the Minister for Arts, Sport & Tourism, Martin Cullen. The prize for winning the ringbuoy competition included a day trip to Dromineer Harbour and a tour around the on one of the local tour boats, Ku-ee-tu, for the whole class and their teacher Susette Galbraith, who promted the pupils to take part and was very helpful in organising the day out.