Frequently Asked Questions on SwimSafer

1. What is the rationale behind replacing the Learn-To-Swim Programme (LTSP) and National Survival Swimming Award (NASSA) with SwimSafer programme?
   A review initiated by the National Water Safety Council (NWSC) in 2008 determined that an integrated programme combining the merits of the LTSP and NASSA into a single national framework be introduced. This new programme called the SwimSafer Programme ensures that students learn basic swimming, survival and lifesaving skills concurrently.

2. Will the LTSP and NASSA cease to exist with the implementation of the SwimSafer?
   As the SwimSafer is designated as the replacement programme for the LTSP and NASSA, both the latter programmes would be discontinued wef 5 July 2010.

3. What are the differences in this new SwimSafer programme from the previous Learn-To-Swim Programme?
   The SwimSafer programme is a six stage level which not only incorporates progressive elements of swimming but also water survival and lifesaving skills at each level.

4. If my child or I have completed LTSP, do I still need to go/can I go through the SwimSafer programme?
   Yes, you still can and it is recommended for you to continue to participate in the SwimSafer programme. Instructors will assess your next entry point in the programme based on your individual skill level.

5. If my child has not completed the LTSP, how will the shift from LTSP to the SwimSafer programme be made?
   With effect from 5 July 2010, instructors will be conducting SwimSafer courses at all of Singapore Sports Council's (SSC) swimming pools. Your child's skill level will be assessed based on SwimSafer Stage 1 standards and he/she will progress from there.

6. If my child is currently undergoing the NASSA programme, how will the transition to SwimSafer be?
   Your child's instructor will determine which of the SwimSafer stages, Bronze, Silver or Gold, will your child be and instruct him/her accordingly.

7. What's the minimum number of hours needed to complete the SwimSafer programme?
   The SwimSafer programme has six progressive stages, each comprising 12 hours of lesson time. Survival and activity skills are taught in each stage of the programme, working progressively toward the next stage.

8. Will the SwimSafer affect the pathway to competitive swimming, since its emphasis is on survival and not technical swimming?
   With the SwimSafer programme, it does not mean that students will not taught proper swimming skills. They will, of course, be instructed on basic swimming skills/strokes, as well as a well-rounded understanding of water survival. As they acquire such water safety skills, they will grow in water confidence and adapt better to competitive swimming.

9. Who are the instructors certified to coach in the SSC swimming complexes?
   With effect from July 2010, only SwimSafer certified instructors can coach in public swimming pools. All SwimSafer certified instructors will be provided with a SwimSafer Instructor Card which they will have to produce upon entering the SSC's swimming complexes, as well as showing upon request from a parent. In addition, they will be identifiable on the pool deck by the SwimSafer branded hat that they will wear when conducting classes.

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