For decades, our school swimming pool has been more than just a place to learn to swim – it’s where confidence was built, friendships were forged, and lifelong memories were made. Many of you will remember your first splash, your proudest lap, or cheering on classmates poolside. Today, we need your help to breathe new life into this special place so that future generations can share those same moments. The Making Waves campaign invites parents, alumni, and friends of our School to come together, ensuring that every child continues to benefit from the joy, safety, and opportunities that swimming brings.
Following a careful appraisal of a range of options, the Board of Governors plans to refurbish the existing pool in partnership with Swim, led by Olympians Rebecca Adlington and Steve Parry, who will facilitate ‘learn to swim’ classes for the local community.
We’ll run inclusive learn-to-swim with small groups and teachers in the water, alongside school squads, regular galas and community sessions so everyone gets time in the lanes. And for our Sixth Form, there are real pathways, lifeguard and Level 2 swim-teacher training with paid work, plus water-safety outreach with local primaries.
Swimming is a life skill: confidence in water, safety for life, and fitness that carries into every sport. The refurbished, energy efficient space adds a bright viewing gallery, modern changing and full accessibility, so it truly works for pupils, parents and our community.
That’s sport, employability and impact, all under one roof.
‘The reopening of the pool at Merchant Taylors marks a really exciting step forward. Learning to swim is not just a sport but a life-saving skill that builds confidence in every child. By offering small group lessons with highly trained teachers in the water, we’re creating a safe, enjoyable, and encouraging place for children to thrive. With the School’s support and our programme, even more children will now have access to this essential opportunity.’
Rebecca Adlington, Olympic medallist & co-owner, Swim.
