When a water safety instructor learned that a primary school was left out of a survival swimming programme, she set the ball in motion to ensure they get access to a pop-up survival swimming day, providing 90 pupils with the experience and skills to navigate the water with newfound confidence.
Western Cape, South Africa (14 May 2025) – Every child deserves the opportunity to learn how to swim and gain water confidence. That is why when the learners of N’duli Primary couldn’t participate in the NSRI’s Water Safety programme, Instructor Eoudia stood up and made a difference.
While hundreds of children benefited from the weekly lessons in local municipal pools, one school, N’duli Primary, unfortunately, could not participate this season as the programme was already at full capacity.
However, Eoudia reached out to the school’s principal, Fezeka Lethunya and together, they arranged a once-off pop-up Survival Swimming Day for 90 students, an initiative that turned into something truly special, NSRI affirms.
“The ‘Pop-Up’ was not only a huge success – it was a fantastic experience for all of us!” said Eoudia.
While transport posed a significant challenge, before the children could even get to the pool, parents covered the costs themselves so that their children could take part.
Many of the kids had also never been in a swimming pool before, highlighting the great need for the programme.
“Another challenge was not only the children’s fear of water but also trusting the instructors who helped them in the pool,” Eoudia said.
However, with time, patience, and an abundance of encouragement, the children began to thrive.
“Some children refused to let go of the pool’s edge at first. Through reassurance from teachers, instructors, and even their peers, they slowly gained confidence. By the end of the lesson, they were floating on their own, with huge smiles on their faces!”
For Eoudia, breaking down barriers so that every child has the chance to develop life-saving skills, resilience, and a lifelong appreciation for water safety lies at the heart of what she does.
She thanked the Witzenberg Municipality for the use of the pool and the lifeguards who ensured the day ran safely.
Looking ahead, there’s hope that N’duli Primary will be part of the regular programme next season and that sustainable transport solutions can be found.
Sources: National Sea Rescue Institute
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