Blacktown Leisure Centre Stanhope is supporting about 5,000 learn-to-swim students, marking the highest enrolments level the centre has recorded in more than 5 years.
Across Council's aquatic centres, enrolments currently sit at just over 7,000 students. Prior to the COVID pandemic restrictions, participation peaked at approximately 8,000 students across all centres, including 5,000 at Blacktown Leisure Centre Stanhope.
The return to this level reflects strong demand across the community and the practical work involved in training and recruiting more swim teachers.
Aquatic facilities have had shortages of qualified swimming instructors in recent years, limiting the number of classes that could be delivered. In response, Blacktown City Council introduced a free in-house swim teacher training program to recruit and support new instructors, enabling more families to access learn-to-swim classes and ensuring children can build essential water safety skills.
The Mayor of Blacktown City, Brad Bunting, said the milestone was an important achievement for the community.
"Learning to swim is a critical life skill, and reaching 5,000 enrolments at Blacktown Leisure Centre Stanhope reflects both strong participation and the dedication of our aquatic teams," he said.
"Families understand the importance of water safety and confidence in the water.
"Council is proud to support programs that build those skills from early childhood through to adulthood."
Data from the Royal Life Saving Society Australia has highlighted increasing pressure on public pools in fast-growing metropolitan communities, particularly in areas experiencing rapid population growth.
In Blacktown City, where population growth is significant and summer temperatures are often higher than in many coastal parts of Sydney, access to affordable swimming lessons close to home becomes increasingly important.
With 5 public swimming centres serving a growing population of about 450,000 people across Blacktown City, enrolment numbers at Blacktown Leisure Centre Stanhope reflect strong community commitment and the everyday reality of busy pools, full classes and sustained demand.
Upgrades for Mount Druitt Swimming Centre and Blacktown Aquatic Centre demonstrate the importance of planning aquatic infrastructure alongside growth, so children and adults can continue accessing lessons safely and close to home.
Blacktown Leisure Centre Stanhope's Aqua Learn to Swim program forms part of Council's broader commitment to water safety across its aquatic and leisure centres, supporting families at every stage of their swimming journey.
