Making waves: Glenwood’s inspiring learn-to-swim programme

Updated March 11, 2025, 6:23 a.m. | By East Coast Breakfast / Skyye Ndlovu

Thanks to a dedicated teacher with a powerful vision, Glenwood High School students are conquering the water – one stroke at a time.

Glenwood Swimming Course — Glenwood's Beginner Swimming Course / Supplied

For many, swimming is more than just a sport – it’s a life skill, a source of confidence, and, at times, even a lifesaver. At Glenwood High School, a remarkable initiative means no student is left behind when it comes to mastering the water.

The Beginners Swimming Course was launched by Kevin Jordan, a dedicated retired teacher, whose inspiration came from a heartbreaking reality.

“Over the Christmas holidays, I got quite depressed reading about all the drownings on the KZN coast,” he shared with East Coast Radio.

Determined to make a difference, he asked the boys a simple but life-changing question: would you like to learn how to swim a length of the pool?

The response was overwhelming.

With the support of Tyrel van Reenen (MIC of swimming) and Rob Ambler (director of aquatics), the programme has already helped 10 boys achieve the milestone of swimming a full length of the pool unaided.

Before the recent school gala, seven boys who had qualified took to the water to showcase their progress.

“Some knew how to swim but lacked the confidence, so they swam quite well. One even finished it with doggie paddle,” Jordan recalled.

Their demonstration was a testament to how far they had come – not just in ability, but in courage.

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The swimming lessons are held every lunch break and it’s not just about teaching strokes; it’s about helping students overcome fear, building resilience, and unlocking potential.

While Jordan dreams of opening the initiative to the public, the limited resources and access to the pool remain a challenge. However, within Glenwood, the impact is undeniable.

Headmaster Pierre Jacobs has set an ambitious goal: by the end of the year, every boy at Glenwood should be able to swim one length of the pool. With more students on track to qualify before the end of this term, that vision is well within reach.

After the students achieve this milestone, they’re awarded a certificate in recognition of their achievement by Van Reenen.

For those hesitant to take the plunge, Jordan offers this invaluable advice: “Overcome your embarrassment and admit you can’t swim. The rewards afterward are worth it.”

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