Published on Tuesday, 31 January 2023 at 9:18:00 AM

A group of young refugees from Ukraine are now able to swim with confidence after taking part in a specialised program at Beatty Park Leisure Centre.

In October 2022, the Ukrainian Association of WA reached out to Beatty Park about providing swimming lessons for displaced refugees living in Perth. 

The Beatty Park Swim School created an eight-week program for 15 students aged 5-14.

Program organiser and Ukrainian Displaced Persons Coordinator Perth Roma Popadynec said the program, which included tips on beach, pool and river safety, was translated from English to Ukrainian.

Beatty Park swim teachers with the Ukrainian students. Picture: Jess - Pink Tank Creative.

“We focused on survival strokes, and basic rescue skills and education as the children were extremely excited to be experiencing the beach over the summer,” she said.

“Siblings who have come to watch the lessons have joined the program after seeing how much fun everyone was having.

“The lessons were structured to be fun and informative which helped nervous students become comfortable in the water.

“Every student was attentive and enthusiastic during the lessons and have embraced what they were taught. 

“The families who come to watch the lessons have said how great they were, and how they really appreciated that we were able to set up this program.”

For information about the Beatty Park Swim School, visit beattypark.com.au/swim-school

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