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 2015. At the end of every six/eight week cycle of swimming lessons participants will be examined to determine their level of competence.
Land PAWS is a programme where Laois Water Safety representatives visit school and deliver a programme to children in relation to safety in, on & around water on the land i.e. Farms, Home, Waterways and Pools. Over 800 children received Land PAWS Certification in 2016 in Laois.
For more information contact:
Ann Marie Maher
Tel: 0578674319