Champion Katy salutes Littlehampton swim school’s success

Katy presented the centre with the prestigious Swimming Teachers Association (STA) Mark, on Saturday, after the Inspire Swim School achieved the country’s highest mark during a recent inspection. The school received a distinction pass of 92 per cent this year, an improvement by three percent over its 2010 score.

Katy, who is currently preparing for the 2012 London Olympics, said: “This award is a testament to the amazing level of work that the swimming centre does to help children learn an absolutely essential skill.

“Swimming has always been a huge part of my life and I believe it is so important for children to learn to swim at as early an age as possible.

“We always hear tragic stories about young children drowning. Swimming is a vital, life-saving skill, that every child should have the opportunity to learn.”

Katy presented the award to Inspire Leisure’s chief executive, John Stride.

He said: “The entire swim school has done an incredible job and we are extremely proud of their achievements and our recognition as being number one.

“To have over 5,000 children on our swim school programme shows that the quality of our staff is outstanding. The swim school continually look to improve their service and this shows through their STA Mark improving each year.”

Swim school manager, Dave Candler, added: “This is a fantastic achievement and to accomplish a distinction for the sixth year running just shows the dedication and passion of our team.”

The Inspire Swim School, run by Inspire Leisure, also operates at the Arun Leisure Centre at Felpham, teaching children of all ages and abilities.