Primary school pupils developed water safety skills when they took swimming lessons in a partnership project with a private company.

West Pembroke School ran its first Splash programme with support from Martello Re Ltd.

A statement from the Government said that all of the school’s pupils took part in lessons led by qualified instructors at the National Sports Centre.

It added that the programme was spearheaded by Martin Wolffe and Zindzi Edmead, physical education teachers “whose vision and dedication were instrumental” in the implementation of the scheme.

Jenna Bean, the school’s principal, said: “We are incredibly proud of the positive impact the Splash programme has had on our students.

“A huge thank you goes to our passionate physical education teachers Mr Wolffe and Mrs Edmead for their initiative, and to Martello Re for their generous sponsorship.

“Equipping our students with water safety skills is an essential part of their education, and we look forward to continuing the Splash programme with their continued support.”

The scheme was open to all 197 students at West Pembroke and participation was free.

The government statement added: “The Splash programme wouldn't have been possible without the generous support of Martello Re Limited, a valued community partner of West Pembroke School.

“Since the 2022-23 school year, Martello Re has demonstrated its commitment to the school through various initiatives, including providing funding for educational resources and student incentives.”

Alana Rathbun, Martello Re’s chief governance and compliance officer, said: “At Martello Re, we are committed to supporting educational initiatives that make a positive impact on our communities, like the Splash programme.

“We were honoured by the opportunity to support the students of West Pembroke in learning swimming and water safety skills that will benefit them for years to come.”

The government statement said: “West Pembroke School and Martello Re look forward to continuing this programme in the upcoming school year, with the goal of ensuring all students become proficient swimmers by the time they reach primary six and exploring further opportunities to collaborate in the future.”