The City of London will be offering learn-to-swim lessons starting July 6th. These lessons will take place at select aquatics locations.
“This is exciting news for anyone who’s looking to pick up a fun summer activity in light of COVID-19,” said Mayor Ed Holder. “The health measures we’ve introduced at aquatic centres will help keep swimmers and staff safe while lessons take place.”
In order to keep everyone safe the following modifications have been made.
- Swim programs will involve thirty-minute sessions that run Monday through Friday.
- Lessons will be taught at a distance by qualified instructors.
- Limited equipment will be used and will be sanitized between each use.
- Class ratios and the number of lessons taking place at the same time will be reduced to allow for physical distancing.
- Participants in Preschool 1 to Swimmer 2 will be required to have a parent or caregiver (13 years and older) in the water with them for physical contact and safety purposes.
- Certain lessons will have limits on the number of family or caregiver participants.
- The City asks that the limit of those accompanying swimmers is one. Designated viewing space is limited and those who choose to view a lesson are expected to physically distance themselves.
“We know how important swim lessons are to the community,” said Lynn Loubert, Division Manager of Parks, and Recreation. “This essential life skill, of learning to swim, helps keep children safe in and around water, and we are excited to be able to provide lessons once again.”
All previously scheduled swim programs have been canceled and will be refunded. Registration for modified swimming lessons will be available Thursday, July 2nd at 8:30 am. Registration will be available online, by a phone call or in-person at City Hall. Spots are limited so families are encouraged to sign up early.
Pools will be opening for lessons only and not for recreation and leisure swimming. Details on swimming facilities opening is expected to be shared early next week.
