Exploring the Influence of Background and Demographic Factors on Children’s Aquatic Competence in Primary Physical Education

The World Health Organization emphasizes the importance of children acquiring basic swimming skills to prevent drowning; yet, many primary school graduates do not meet standard benchmarks. This quantitative study investigated how background and demographic factors impact aquatic competency in children aged 10–12 years in Victoria, Australia. Surveys from 205 parents and 98 children, along with practical tests (on six aquatic competencies) from 175 children, showed that only 2.9% met all benchmarks. While 86.8% achieved underwater skills, only 13.0% mastered lifesaving skills. Parental education, household income, school type, private lessons, lesson duration, and swimming in various aquatic environments significantly influenced children’s aquatic competencies. These findings highlight the need to address low aquatic competency, especially in lower socioeconomic groups. Integrating aquatic education into school curricula and enhancing physical education teacher education programs, along with continuous professional development for teachers, are vital to ensure all children gain essential swimming and water safety skills.