Measuring Australian Primary School Children's Water Safety Knowledge: Alignment With the Victorian Water Safety Certificate.

Abstract

Background: Water safety education is essential to prevent drowning. In Australia, while water safety education is included in the school curriculum, the focus is often on skill attainment rather than knowledge.

Methods: This study assessed water safety knowledge in Grade 5 and 6 students (aged 9-11 years). Surveys were conducted with students and parents. Additionally, swim teachers conducted standardized knowledge assessments.

Results: Matched surveys were completed by 99 students and their parents. Students' mean knowledge score was 8.7 (SD = 2.4) out of 15. Private swimming lessons and speaking English at home were linked to higher knowledge scores. Only 55.6% of students achieved the knowledge standards in swim teacher assessments. Parents overestimated their child's knowledge in 42.1% of cases, underestimated it in 31.6%, and accurately assessed it in 26.3% of cases.

Implications for school health policy, practice, and equity: Water safety knowledge gaps are notable for students who lack swimming lessons or speak a language other than English at home, suggesting a need for tailored approaches. Educators face challenges integrating water safety education into classroom learning, highlighting the need for resources and support.

Conclusions: Ongoing support and resources for teachers are essential to ensure all children develop essential water safety knowledge and skills.