Thriving with the Right Support in Swimming

Susie and her swim teacher, Emma after their lesson

Background

Susie's swimming journey began with frustration and misunderstanding. Born with cerebral palsy, her right arm is most affected, making some swimming techniques more challenging. In a previous group lesson, Susie was reprimanded for not being able to hold onto two floats—an expectation that simply wasn’t possible for her. This left leaving Susie feeling excluded and struggling to make progress.

Finding the Right Fit

Everything changed when Susie joined Level Water lessons. With specialised instruction tailored to her needs, she has now been swimming for 14 months and thriving. The adapted lessons, which include differentiated activities and in-water support, allow Susie to develop at her own pace, ensuring she is not just included but truly progressing.

Her swimming teacher, Emma, has been instrumental in her success. By understanding her needs and adapting activities accordingly, Emma has given Susie the opportunity to grow in confidence and ability. Susie absolutely loves her lessons and looks forward to them each week.

The Impact of Swimming

For Susie, learning to swim is about more than just a skill—it represents inclusion, joy, and independence. It means she can join in with her family on holiday, play safely in the water, and not feel left behind. Swimming has given her a sense of belonging and accomplishment that she was previously denied.

For her mum, seeing Susie thrive in the water is deeply emotional. “Every child deserves to be able to learn to swim, no matter any additional needs they might have,” she says. “To any pool or swim school not yet working with Level Water—do it! The difference it makes is incredible.”

Gratitude and Advocacy

Susie’s family is immensely grateful to the Level Water organisation, the dedicated fundraisers, and the swimming teachers who have supported her with patience and encouragement. The difference they have made is life-changing, not just for Susie but for her whole family.

Susie’s story is a powerful reminder that with the right support, no child should ever be made to feel like they don’t belong. Inclusive swimming is not just about teaching a skill—it’s about giving every child the chance to experience joy, achievement, and equality in the water.