School stays in swimming scheme

Pretty Beach Public School will continue its participation in an Education Department swimming scheme despite the closure of Woy Woy pool and increasing costs.

The swimming instruction is provided free of charge but parents have to pay for pool entry and bus fares.

Being a small school they have been unable to fill a bus with year 2 and 3 students and the expense has been between $60 and $70 per year.

With Woy Woy pool closing for refurbishment and students now having to go to Gosford pool, the school felt it was time to re assess their participation in the program.

A survey was sent home to parents and as a result most parents recognise the value of the scheme and want to participate at Gosford pool next year.

Parents are also supporting the option of sending year 4 students to participate in a Surf Life Saving program to further their safety skills as well as cutting bus costs.

Comments were received as a result of the survey.

"The cost is not important when life saving skills are being taught.

"My son thoroughly enjoyed the swimming scheme and is looking forward to next years, the idea of a lifesaving scheme sounds fantastic.

"I hope it is successful and can be carried on, this type of program is most important living in this watery environment."

School Newsletter, April 2.