The People of Project Elevate Ashmont Primary School

Ashmont Public School recognises swimming as a vital life skill and believes that every student should have the opportunity to learn it. Many families in the community face financial barriers that prevent them from accessing lessons, and by participating in Project Elevate, the school aimed to ensure equitable access to swimming and water safety education while also supporting students’ overall wellbeing through physical activity and movement.

As the program progressed, students demonstrated significant improvements in both confidence and ability. They became much more comfortable in the water, happily putting their faces in and trusting their own ability to stand safely. Those working on stroke development were proud to see themselves swimming further with correct arm and leg movements, while others built trust in their skills and overcame their initial hesitation. The program created a sense of achievement that could be seen in the big smiles on students’ faces when they reached their goals.

Project Elevate closely supported the school’s educational and wellbeing priorities. It reflected key learning outcomes from the NSW PDHPE syllabus, catered for students of all skill levels, and encouraged full participation. By fostering resilience, healthy lifestyles, and emotional regulation, the program not only helped students to develop as swimmers but also supported their physical, mental, and social wellbeing. Families and staff provided strong positive feedback, and the program contributed to a more positive school culture overall.

Because the program was delivered at no cost, a larger percentage of students were able to participate than in previous years. This removed a significant barrier for families and allowed more children to experience the benefits of swimming and water safety education. The impact extended beyond the lessons themselves, with students looking forward to summer and feeling confident about swimming in the carnival.

Ashmont Public School strongly recommends Project Elevate to other schools, describing it as well organised, engaging, and accessible to all students. It catered to the diverse needs of their learners and left students more confident and capable in the water. For the school community, Project Elevate provided far more than swimming lessons; it delivered essential life skills, boosted wellbeing, and created opportunities that families in a low socioeconomic area may not otherwise have had. The program’s success was evident in the growth, confidence, and joy it brought to students, leaving a lasting impact on both the school and its community.