Life saving lessons: NSRI's Survival Swimming Programme empowers Makhanda learners

On Saturday, 19th October, St Andrew's College, in collaboration with the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) and Station 11 Port Alfred, launched an impactful series of Survival Swimming lessons at the DT Hudson Pool complex.

The programme brought together 45 eager Grade 5 and 6 learners from Good Shepherd School in Makhanda for an introduction to essential water safety skills.

The excitement among the young participants was palpable. "The learners were very excited, but there were a lot of very nervous children too, especially when they realised that there were no swim aids or goggles being used," shared Carol Mewse, NSRI Station 11 crew member and Survival Swimming Coordinator. For many of these learners, the lessons marked their first formal water safety instruction, an essential step given the risks posed by nearby water bodies.

One of the key challenges in teaching younger children water survival skills is their initial fear of water. "It takes a lot of creativity, encouragement, high-fives, and energetic vibes to get children scared of being in the water to enjoy their first lesson," Carol explained. The initial sessions can be challenging as nervous learners require more focused attention, which can limit instruction time for those already comfortable in the water. However, subsequent lessons are tailored to group children by their confidence and ability, allowing for more targeted and effective teaching.

A significant barrier to water safety education in the community is the widespread fear of water passed down from parents and guardians. Ms Ncumisa Mzaza, St Andrew’s College Community Engagement Manager, emphasised, "There is a definite need to educate parents too. I was made to be terrified of water from stories that my parents and grandparents told us as kids, and as a result could not swim. This is the case with most kids." She added, "Education around safety and respect versus fear is critical."

The involvement of 36 volunteers from St Andrew's College and Diocesan School for Girls (DSG) played a pivotal role in the programme's success. "The buy-in from the learners was crucial," Carol said. "The strong community service ethos at St Andrew’s College and Diocesan School for Girls motivates learners to engage in impactful projects." This ethos and the NSRI's high regard among the scholars spurred excitement and a sense of pride. "The scholars all expressed a desire to make a difference in the community, either through altruistic motives or personal near-drowning experiences," Mewse added.

These lessons contribute to broader NSRI goals by empowering children with vital survival skills and promoting water awareness. "The survival swimming programme is playing a crucial role in Makhanda communities by equipping children with essential skills and knowledge for water safety," said Caville Abrahams, Drowning Prevention Regional Coordinator. "It teaches them basic self-rescue techniques, empowering them to react quickly and effectively if they find themselves in danger. Additionally, the programme raises awareness about the hazards in and around water, helping children recognise and avoid risky situations."

Looking forward, the NSRI aims to expand these initiatives through partnerships. "Collaborating with institutions like St Andrew's College and other organisations that already have a strong presence in these communities is a key strategy," Caville noted. By fostering such collaborations, the NSRI hopes to embed water safety education across South Africa, cultivating generations that are not only skilled but also committed to promoting water safety far beyond their school years.