Seven-year-old Jacob Parker from Sudbury has completed all seven stages of the Swim Academy programme at Abbeycroft’s Kingfisher Leisure Centre, an achievement Swim England has described as “unusually early” for his age.
Jacob, who attends St Gregory CEVC Primary School, has been swimming with Abbeycroft for the past three years, progressing steadily through the Swim Academy stages with the support of his teachers. His family say the encouragement he has received, particularly from teacher June, has played a key role in his development and has been instrumental in helping him build both skills and confidence in the water.
Having now completed Stage 7, Jacob has moved up into the Black Hat group and has already begun Stage 8, continuing to enjoy every session.
Jacob’s mum, Chloe, said:
“We are so proud of Jacob and everything he’s achieved. He absolutely loves his swimming lessons and always comes out of the pool with a huge smile on his face. A massive thank you to all his teachers at Kingfisher, especially June. Her support and encouragement have made such a difference to his progress. We can’t wait to see what he achieves next!”
Recognised by Swim England
Lorna Goldie, National Aquatics Competency Manager – School Swimming said:
“Learning to swim is a vital life skill. Swim England’s four recommended water competencies: floating on the back for 60 seconds, treading water for 30 seconds, swimming in clothing and swimming 100 metres with ease are designed to develop competence and water safety knowledge. By continuing to attend swimming lessons through to stage 7, Jacob has shown dedication to learn the 4 water competencies. Well done, Jacob!”
Head of Operations at Abbeycroft, Kate Martin, said:
“Congratulations to Jacob on this brilliant achievement. Learning to swim is one of the most important life skills a child can develop, and it’s fantastic to see him progressing so well and enjoying every step of his swimming journey. Well done also to our teachers, particularly June, for the dedication and encouragement they give to all our young swimmers. We’re extremely proud of Jacob and can’t wait to see him continue his progress into Stage 8 and beyond.”
Daniel Woodrow, Headteacher at St Gregory said:
“Everyone at St Greg’s is incredibly proud of Jacob and his fabulous achievements. The way that he always gives his best but also makes sure that he enjoys every minute too is a great example to all of us and we can’t wait to see where his swimming journey takes him. “
Abbeycroft manages Kingfisher Leisure Centre on behalf of Babergh District Council.
Cllr Laura Smith, Babergh District Council cabinet member for thriving communities, said:
“Jacob and his family should be incredibly proud of this remarkable achievement. Reaching this milestone at such a young age reflects not only his enthusiasm and determination but also the skill of his teachers.
“We are delighted to see success stories like these coming from our local leisure facilities and wish Jacob good luck as he progresses with his swimming journey.”
Why learning to swim matters
Swimming is a vital life skill, and learning to swim from an early age not only helps keep children safe in and around water but also builds confidence, coordination and fitness that benefit them well beyond the pool. Abbeycroft’s Swim Academy programme is designed to take children on that journey step by step, from their very first introduction to water through to more advanced strokes and water safety skills, with qualified teachers supporting every stage of progress at each swimmer’s own pace.
Find out more about Abbeycroft’s Swim Academy
