Peer-reviewed research2017–2026 update
How does a primary school organize outdoor swimming and water safety lessons?
A Norwegian primary school's outdoor swimming and water safety week was marked by strong principal support, staff teamwork, experiential learning, challenge by choice and risk awareness.
What's new
The study explored how a Norwegian primary school organised an outdoor education week, focusing on outdoor swimming and water safety lessons in physical education. Researchers video-recorded four days of lessons. They then used the footage in photo-elicitation interviews with two teachers and the headmaster. The headmaster gave outdoor education high priority, and colleagues were keen to cooperate. Lessons featured experiential learning, challenge by choice and risk awareness, and matched curriculum goals for being safe in, on and around water.
Why it matters in Aotearoa
Water safety education is a priority in Aotearoa. The study describes how one school's leadership support and teamwork featured in running outdoor aquatic sessions.
Putting it into practice
When planning water safety sessions in open water, build in challenge by choice so that students choose their level of challenge within clear safety limits. Make sure senior leaders actively support the week.
How strong is the evidence
This is a single-school qualitative case study with three staff participants. The video observation adds depth, but the results cannot be generalised.
What to read
The findings on how the lessons were organised and taught.