Schleswig-Holstein continues swimming learning offensive

Schleswig-Holstein Education Minister Dr. Dorit Stenke has announced the continuation of the state's swimming learning offensive. The initiative aims to ensure children acquire swimming skills as a prerequisite for safe participation in school and extracurricular life.

Since 2018, various measures have been implemented to improve swimming instruction across the region. These include collaborations between schools and external partners, training for teachers, and qualifying non-specialist instructors. Academic support for teacher qualification is provided through Europa-Universität Flensburg and Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel.

Recent data shows progress in swimming proficiency: 51 percent of primary school children are safe swimmers at the start of 4th grade, a 3 percent increase since summer 2023. At gymnasiums, the rate rose to 88.2 percent. To support infrastructure, the ministry has invested 14 million euros in swimming facilities through 2025, with an additional 25 million euros earmarked for new construction and renovations.