Swim Diploma A

getting their A diploma

jillian watching the test!

jayden 'rounds the corner during his test

graham on his back during a portion of his test

helen holds the flowers to give to the boys

The boys had their final test to earn their A Diploma in swimming today! We are so proud of them for earning this diploma. I am going to try to briefly explain the swimming Diploma system.....as a former swim teacher myself - i think this program is an excellent way to teach kids how to swim. the teachers are great.

here in Holland - swimming is taken very seriously...i think being surrounded by water has something to do with it :) the boys started out in swimming group 1 last May and worked their way up to group 5. after they completed the skills required for group 5 - they were invited to swim for their A diploma. I believe there are A, B, and C diplomas that can be earned by the children for swimming here in Holland. As part of the A diploma test - they were required to swim a portion of the test in shorts, shoes, and a tshirt (I guess to simulate a situation where one might fall into water). In the B and C diploma tests - the children must wear long pants, long sleeves, a rain coat, etc. as well as perform certain types of swimming skills.

i took a TON of video during the test this afternoon and i'm going to try and share a few vidoes! Such a neat experience and I couldn't be more proud of them!

will post the video later - MUST. GET. TO. SOME.SLEEP! :)