Rhiannon Birch

Research Manager – Aquatic Risk and Research

Life Saving Victoria (LSV)

Swimming & Water Safety in

the Victorian Curriculum

The VWSC is not new

• Goal of the Victorian Curriculum by Year 6

• Describes the minimum benchmark for children leaving primary school

• How to use?

• Can be ordered at www.lsv.com.au/vwsc (no cost)

The VWSC

http://www.lsv.com.au/vwsc

Benefits of the VWSC

For schools For swim schools

• Standardised measures across the

industry

• Linkages to curriculum, accountability

• Ensures water safety content is delivered

• Deliver with other level achievement

awards

• Provides schools a single focus point/benchmark for swimming and water safety

• Keeping track of student achievement / assessment

• Swimming and water safety is included in the Victorian Curriculum across all year levels

• Signed by the Premier

• Presentation of the certificate / celebration

• Once certificates are issued, schools can be more confident in organising water activities/sports

What about those who don’t achieve the

VWSC...

1. Utilise survival swimming programs

2. Parent education

3. Classroom-based and dry activities

4. Other considerations

Who is NOT achieving the VWSC and why?

Novel ways to award the certificate

Activity days at the pool School assembly

Open water activities and camps Combine with other programs

Free supporting resources

lsv.com.au/toolkit

Next steps for those that don't award the

VWSC...

lsv.com.au/vwsc

Who? Where? Why?

Victorian Drowning Report (2017/18)

https://lsv.com.au/research/victorian-drowning-reports/

https://lsv.com.au/research/victorian-drowning-reports/

We need your help!