Junior School Swimming Program

Towards the end of October, our Junior School students made a wonderful start to the 2026 Swimming Program, enjoying the beautiful conditions at Cabarita Swimming Pool.

Under the guidance of the pool’s experienced swimming coaches, students were assessed and placed into groups appropriate to their swimming abilities and confidence levels. They then began developing and refining their skills, setting the foundation for an enjoyable and rewarding program.

Learning to swim is much more than simply developing a sporting skill. In Australia, where beaches, swimming pools and waterways are such an important part of our lifestyle, swimming is an essential life skill. Developing confidence and competence in the water helps children understand water safety, recognise risks and develop skills that may one day save a life.

Swimming is also an excellent form of physical activity. It develops cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength, coordination and endurance while providing a low-impact activity that children can enjoy throughout their lives.

Importantly, our Swimming Program offers valuable opportunities for learning beyond the water. Participating in group lessons encourages students to listen carefully, follow instructions, support one another and celebrate individual progress. Students learn that everyone develops skills at different rates and that improvement comes through practice, perseverance and a willingness to try new challenges.

For some students, the greatest achievement may be mastering a new swimming stroke, while for others it might be finding the confidence to put their face underwater or attempt something they have never done before. Every achievement is worth celebrating.

At The McDonald College, we recognise that learning takes place in many different environments. Our Swimming Program provides another opportunity for students to develop confidence, resilience, independence and important life skills.

It was wonderful to see our students so enthusiastically engaged in their first lesson, and we look forward to watching their confidence and abilities grow throughout the program.

Peter Slattery

Director of Junior School