Key Facts
• June 2025: Sendai City launched a pilot program in 8 schools.
• Private swimming instructors replaced teachers in swimming classes.
• Aimed to ensure safety, detailed instruction, and reduce teacher workload.
• June 30, 2025: Three instructors taught 30 sixth-grade students at Takamori Elementary.
• Students were divided into three groups based on swimming levels.
• Techniques like flutter kicks were taught during the session.
• Students praised personalized teaching methods and requested program continuation.
• Teachers noted reduced workload, focusing on evaluations instead of instruction.
• Sendai City Board of Education plans to finalize outsourcing policies by year-end.
Summary
Sendai City initiated a pilot program in June 2025, involving private swimming instructors from local swim schools to lead swimming classes in eight elementary and middle schools. The initiative aims to enhance safety, provide detailed instruction, and alleviate teacher workload, including pool maintenance. On June 30, three instructors taught 30 sixth-grade students at Takamori Elementary, dividing them into skill-based groups and focusing on techniques like flutter kicks. Students appreciated the personalized teaching, while teachers highlighted reduced responsibilities. The Sendai City Board of Education will evaluate the program through surveys and finalize its outsourcing policy by the end of the fiscal year.
