Council’s connected communities director, Julie Vaughan, said keeping children swimming throughout all months of the year was important, as water safety was a year-round concern.

“The dangers of water do not disappear when the weather gets colder, so keeping our children’s skills at an optimum level is our best defence,” Ms Vaughan said.

“Additionally, winter swimmers make for future champions. Children who train through the months of winter progress through the levels at a much faster rate than those who do not.

“In fact, the swimming strength and abilities of children who only train in the warmer months of the year tend to take a much longer time to develop.”

Mayor Jane Smith said the learn-to-swim program, taught at three of council’s leisure centres, was a great way to improve the physical and social wellbeing of children.

“Council aims to provide outstanding leisure opportunities and programs in swimming, fitness and sports for all of the Central Coast community, in a healthy, fun-filled and family-friendly environment,” Cr Smith said.

Learn-to-swim classes and programs are available at three of council’s leisure centres: Peninsula Leisure Centre, Gosford Olympic Pool and Toukley Aquatic Centre.

All of them have heated swimming pools.

Visit centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/leisurecentres