By Ashley Gundlach, British Swim School

In the world of aquatics, diversity, equity and inclusion play a vital role in creating a welcoming and accessible environment for all. British Swim School’s mission and model embrace this, extending far past the pool.

Swimming is more than a recreational activity; it’s a critical life skill that promotes safety, fitness and well-being. Recognizing the significance of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), aquatics franchises are increasingly prioritizing inclusivity and striving to ensure that their programs and facilities cater to all individuals. British Swim School’s mission aligns with that — to help those of all ages and abilities become safe and happy swimmers — attracting not only families of all backgrounds, but franchise owners with a wide range of backgrounds and skills.

The initial creation of the British Swim School aquatics program included nine levels for children to work through as their swim skills grew. However, it was quickly recognized that not everyone has equal opportunities to learn how to swim and enjoy the water.

The Vital Importance of Adult Swimming Skills

The importance of knowing how to swim is often overlooked, especially for adults. At any level, swimming is a great way to maintain your health as you age — you can improve your stamina and burn calories for a low-impact, easily sustainable activity.

Inclusivity is a fundamental aspect of British Swim School’s philosophy — our aquatics program was initially designed with special abilities in mind back in 1981!

 But more important are the survival aspects of swimming: did you know that over 54 percent of Americans are unable to swim well enough to save themselves, let alone someone else? Aquatics franchises are noticing this gap in the availability and professionalism for adult swim lessons — also recognizing the root of the problem being that many adults simply didn’t have access to swim lessons as children. At British Swim School, similar to our nine core levels for children, we have built an adult program that focuses on acclimation for those hesitant around the water, survival tactics for inexperienced swimmers and finally, stroke development for more advanced adult swimmers.

Not only is it critical to teach adult students how to survive in the water, but these skills could potentially save the life of someone else!

Empowering Young Adults

Leading the charge in creating a welcome and accessible environment for all is the introduction of British Swim School’s one-of-a-kind Young Adult program. Catering specifically to young adults ages 12-17, this program allows them to develop their swimming abilities while fostering a sense of independence and accomplishment.

Historically this has been an overlooked group, even though young adults have the 2nd highest fatal drowning rate out of any age group (only toddlers have a higher risk of drowning). Young adults as a group are more likely to overestimate their swimming abilities, especially in open water, and many teens tend to feel they are invincible. Rather than let these alarming statistics continue to rise, we have created a program tailored for this age group to ensure everyone has the ability to become a safe and happy swimmer.

“Despite their interest in learning or improving their swimming skills, many young adults are hesitant to enroll in a swim class due to concerns of being grouped with younger, less experienced swimmers,” says Melissa McGarvey, British Swim School aquatics director, who realized the need for a program of this type. “We recognize that young adult learners require a unique approach that fosters individual progress and ensures their comfort and safety in the water.”

The Creation of an Adaptive Aquatics Program

Inclusivity is a fundamental aspect of British Swim School’s philosophy — our aquatics program was initially designed with special abilities in mind back in 1981! By working one-on-one with each student, we can tailor their learning experiences to align with their abilities and learning style, ultimately aiming to assimilate the student into the traditional program if and when they’re ready. This personalized instruction ensures that each student receives the necessary guidance and support to excel in their swimming journey and be safer around the water.

Bottom line — we focus on what they can do instead of what they cannot do. Adaptive Aquatics Programs are growing throughout the world as the importance of DEI is realized and organizations are creating programs tailored to ALL students.

Diversity in Aquatics

According to USA Swimming and The University of Memphis, 79 percent of children in low-income families have little to no swim ability. Even more alarming are these statistics — the organization Diversity in Aquatics cites research by Irwin et al. (2009) that found that 64 percent of African American, 45 percent Hispanic/Latinx children and 40 percent of Caucasian children have no/low swimming ability.

One of the most impactful ways to ensure these children have equal opportunities and access to swim programs is through the work done with nonprofits in the aquatics world, such as Hope Floats Foundation. Organizations like this create opportunities for swim schools to partner and fundraise to provide scholarships to families who otherwise may not be able to afford lessons. Even still, many franchise owners across aquatics franchises are able to work with local city and state governments to receive grants to provide free swim lessons to certain residents.

According to USA Swimming and The University of Memphis, 79 percent of children in low-income families have little to no swim ability.

 What makes the biggest dent though in terms of DEI in the aquatics world is the diversity in the franchising world. British Swim School alone has over 100 franchisees from every corner of the globe — we know that representation makes a difference. These are the people on the ground, executing our mission day in and day out — and the people who our swim families see when they’re at the pool. This all-encompassing group of owners is in each of these communities, making a difference to turn the tide on these harrowing statistics.

As a mission-driven franchise concept that’s creating equal opportunities for swimmers of all ages and abilities, British Swim School is breaking down barriers and ensuring that everyone can learn to be safe and happy swimmers. Regardless of age or ability, British Swim School offers a supportive and inclusive environment where individuals can embark on their swimming journey and unlock their full potential. So, what are you waiting for? Dive in — feet first for safety, of course!

Ashley Gundlach is the president of British Swim School. As the president of British Swim School, Ashley oversees all aspects of the business and leads the team to drive growth and ensure strong franchisee support. For more information about IFA franchisor member British Swim School, please visit franchise.org/franchise-opportunities/childrens-products-services/british-swim-school.