Celebrating Distance Week in Waltham Forest

From the 9th March to 15th March pupils in the Better Swim School across Waltham Forest were celebrating another outstanding Distance Week, with hundreds of young swimmers taking to the water to challenge themselves, build confidence, and earn well‑deserved distance medals. 

This spring, over 2300 swimmers across the borough achieved their distance medal awards, showcasing the continued strength of the Better Swim School programme and the dedication of families who support it. It is somewhat predictable that the most popular award was the 5‑metre distance, with more than 800 pupils achieving this medal and it is significant as it is the first landmark to reach which will fill pupils with pride. Furthermore, it will give them a standard to develop from.  

Around 400 pupils achieving the 10-metre medals and 300 earning the 25-metre medals. Many pupils took on the challenge to achieve longer distances and more than 200 did 400m, 800m, and even 1,500m which is a demonstration of their determination whilst showcasing their great progress in stamina and technique. With all distances getting the technique correct was important which can become more difficult as the children tire.   

Some parents and learners took the time to share how much the week meant to them. One parent at Leytonstone Leisure Centre said: 

“It’s amazing to see how far my child has come. Last year, they were nervous putting their face in the water and now they’ve earned multiple distance badges. The confidence boost is incredible.” 

Young swimmers were just as proud of their achievements. A distance‑week participant in Chingford Leisure Centre explained: 

“I really wanted to swim further than before and when I got my medal, I felt super proud of myself!” 
A parent added: 

“The swim teachers make such a difference. They celebrate every milestone, and it motivates the children to keep going.” 

Whilst it can be hard work to organise staff at Better Swim School say Distance Week continues to be one of the most positive parts of the year and they enjoy the smiles on the faces of pupils when they get a new medal.  
Waltham Forest Area Swim Lead, Jennifer Rowley summaries: 

“It gives every learner a chance to measure personal progress, whether taking their first 5‑metre swim or pushing toward longer endurance distances.” 
With thousands of medals earned across Waltham Forest, Distance Week once again highlights the dedication, progress, and community spirit that make Better Swim School such a valued part of local families’ lives.