Media Release
22 June 2007

Manukau's swimming lessons catering to the needs of all

Parents and caregivers of students with disabilities are singing the praises of Manukau Swimsation swim school's special needs programme.

Classes are designed to cater for the individual needs of students whose disabilities include autism, multiple sclerosis, ADHD, haemophilia and cerebral palsy.

Swimsation Coordinator Dawn Taffard has taught swimming to students with disabilities for the last ten years. She says many parents of special needs students comment on the difference they see in their child's confidence and physical capability following lessons.

One mother of an autistic boy commented, "It's great for him to have this experience, Swimsation staff are open, responsive and friendly when dealing with him.

"Working in smaller groups is beneficial to the instructor and the student," says Dawn.

To find out more about learn-to-swim programmes for students with disabilities go to the Swimsation website at www.swimsation.com , phone Manurewa Aquatic Centre 2690937 or Papatoetoe Centennial Pool 2790485. Manukau's friendly and fully-qualified Swimsation team will be happy to assist you.

ENDS