Oldham Active has launched an innovative learn to swim programme.

Renowned for operating leisure facilities in the borough including five swimming pools, it is now offering children modern teaching techniques, playful characters, and game-based learning.

Developed by Oldham Active's aquatics brand manager, Becca Thomas, the programme targets children aged three and beyond.

It is designed to be different from ordinary lessons, promoting a fun and engaging environment to nurture young swimmers.

Ms Thomas said: "We're thrilled to launch our new Learn to Swim programme.

"We've deviated from traditional teaching, focusing more on a fun approach to swimming emphasising water safety awareness and core fundamentals."

The new swimming course will be available at Oldham Leisure Centre, Royton Leisure Centre, Chadderton Wellbeing Centre, Failsworth Sports Centre, and Saddleworth Pool and Leisure Centre.

The Learn to Swim programme includes new water-based characters created by Kath Mahon, manager at Failsworth Leisure Centre.

Delighted with the outcome, Ms Mahon said: "I'm pleased with how the characters turned out.

"These fun characters will help create a fun and engaging environment for children to learn how to swim and celebrate their achievements."

The characters include Casey the Crab, Sally the Starfish, Pedro the Pufferfish, Omar the Octopus, Sheldon the Shark, Destiny the Dolphin, and Steve the Stingray.

Oldham Active has also expanded its teaching staff, training people to become swimming teachers.

This expansion has allowed the leisure group to offer more lessons each week.

Explaining the expansion, Ms Thomas said: "We already teach 4,000 young people to swim each week, but investing in our existing teachers and upskilling local people has allowed us to expand.

"We're now taking on new enrolments.

"Children enrolled for our centres’ previous swim courses will join at the equivalent stage of the new seven-level programme."

For enrolments and more information, visit the Oldham Active website.