A new swim school will be opening in Letchworth in September, to meet growing demand for lessons.

St Francis' College is set to offer children's swimming lessons for 50 weeks of the year, seven days a week.

Leisure manager Rob Canfield said: "It follows an increasing demand for swimming lessons locally.

"With many children not able to access swimming lessons, such an opportunity for the community to gain access, to not only a valuable life skill but also a chance to be more physically active, could have a big impact on their lives.

"The opportunity this presents provides children the chance at taking their first steps towards a healthier lifestyle from a young age, in a safe and self-contained swimming pool.

"Whilst for many years swimming lessons have been operating out of the St Francis’ College swimming pool, these have been later in the evening and only term based.

"The expansion and creation of these new swimming lessons sees earlier lessons and all-year-round ability-based assessment via a secure online platform for parents to view their children’s progress, furthering their engagement in their own journey to a healthier lifestyle.

The college's headteacher, James Nichols, added: "Not only is the safety of children paramount, but their overall health is key to their success. That is why we want to be able to help in providing more access to such a positive facility here within Letchworth."

For more information, email Rob at RCanfield@st-francis.herts.sch.uk.