A PARALYMPIAN helped a swimming club celebrate becoming the first in London to receive a top award for teaching.
Fourteen-year-old swimmer Amy Marren, who was the youngest Paralympic athlete at London 2012, joined in with relays and mini polo at the St Paul’s Girls’ School pool in Hammersmith on Saturday last week as their inclusive swimming club, Greenhouse, was given Swim 21 Learn to Swim accreditation.
Greenhouse is a charity which places sports coaches in schools and communities across London to be mentors and role models for young people, including those with physical and learning difficulties, to build on their engagement with education and community, while improving their health and well-being.
The accreditation means the Hammersmith branch of the club is recognised as an effective, ethical and sustainable teaching club.
Miss Marren said: “To be given the chance to swim with Greenhouse was fantastic. I hope I’ve inspired the young people to be what they want in the pool and follow their dreams.
“As a British para-swimmer I understand only too well some of the obstacles people face when trying to find a club which will support and nurture the needs of a young disabled person.”
Sue Webb, an assessor from Swim 21, said it was clear children were motivated and enjoying their lessons.
She said: “All parents said their children had shown improvement. Many spoke of the importance of the social aspects for their children, some of whom felt isolated at home.
“Greenhouse plays an important part in developing the children’s self-esteem and in giving them unique opportunities to develop aquatic skills and to help them reach their potential in swimming in a fun, supportive, and safe environment.”
Greenhouse holds lessons for beginners every Saturday afternoon at St Paul’s Girls’ School pool, followed by sessions for more experienced swimmers wanting to master more strokes and skills.
