In Aotearoa, we are united by a common goal — to reduce drowning rates and protect our tamariki. But if we are serious about being part of the solution, then we must be honest about what’s not working and courageous enough to change how we teach water safety.
The reality is, most drownings don’t happen in swimming pools. They happen in uncontrolled, unpredictable open water environments — at beaches, lakes, rivers, and floodwaters. So, why are we still teaching skills designed for pools alone?
It’s time to shift our focus.
Water Skills for Life is evolving, and with good reason. We are placing greater emphasis on age-appropriate skills and competencies that reflect the real conditions our children are most at risk in. That means bringing the open water world into our controlled environments, simulating situations children may face outside the safety of a pool — navigating murky water, dealing with currents, or making smart decisions when things go wrong.
It’s a change that asks more of us as educators, instructors, and schools — but it’s a change rooted in evidence, experience, and a deep desire to prevent loss of life.
Yes, change is challenging.But the why behind this shift is simple:If we’re not teaching our tamariki how to respond in the environments where drownings happen, how can we say we’re preparing them? How can we claim to be part of the solution?
We know that teaching real-world water skills in a safe, structured way is not only possible — it’s powerful. And you won’t be doing it alone.
The resources are here.The support is here.The professional learning opportunities are here.
We are here to walk with you through the change. From activity templates and simulations to hands-on mentoring and ongoing professional development, you’ll have what you need to confidently deliver the Water Skills for Life programme with impact.
Together, we can ensure our tamariki are not only confident in the pool, but capable and calm in open water.
Let’s be part of the solution — by preparing children for the realities they’ll face, not just the comfort of the classroom or poolside.
Ngā mihi,The Water Skills for Life Team