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Schools swimming galas make a big splash across Bridgend County Borough
Friday 04 July 2025
A reintroduction of the once popular school swimming galas was last week trialled by several schools in Bridgend County Borough and has been named a resounding success.
The three-day swimming event took place at Halo’s Ynysawdre Swimming Pool, from Tuesday to Thursday, 17 - 19 June, and was aimed at primary school pupil’s aged seven to 11 years old.
The purpose of the gala, supported by the council’s Prevention and Wellbeing service, Halo Leisure, and Apollo Teaching Agency was to give pupils an opportunity to participate in a swimming event where they could represent their school, enjoy the benefits of swimming and interact with pupils from other local schools.
"This event provided our students with a meaningful competitive experience while upholding the values of good sportsmanship. For many of these young swimmers, it was their first taste of competition. We believe that swimming is not only an essential life skill but also an invaluable opportunity for physical fitness and personal development. “I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to all who played a pivotal role in organising this event. Together, we are fostering a love for swimming in our children, ensuring that they have the chance to thrive in a supportive and competitive environment."
A total of 450, year three to six pupils from across the county borough took part over three days. With a huge amount of interest from primary schools, it is set to become a permanent fixture in all primary schools across the county borough in 2026.
"It’s fantastic to hear the swimming gala was a huge success, with so many children having the opportunity to take part over the three days, representing their school and competing is wonderful. “Swimming is such a vital life skill for these young people, especially when living in a county borough with so many beautiful coastal destinations on our doorstep and reputable aquatic clubs available. “Bridgend County Borough schools and their teachers have once again shown their desire and passion to provide opportunities for the children to showcase their skills. It’s great to learn that the feedback given from everybody involved is to develop this event further in the future, making it bigger and better. Congratulations and a big thank you to all involved.”
With so much excitement around the event, it is hoped that local aquatic clubs throughout Bridgend County Borough will have also seen a rise in membership enquiries, having inspired continued participation by young people in aquatic sports in the area.
For more information on the ‘learn to swim’ programme for children and young people, and for further information local aquatic clubs please visit: