Harnessing the waves: how children in Hout Bay are learning to swim with confidence

For children growing up in Hout Bay, the ocean is not far away, 

But for some, being so close to the seaside does not mean they have the confidence or skills to safely enter the water.

Sentinel Ocean Alliance was established in Hout Bay to change that, aiming to create opportunities for young people from underserved coastal communities to experience the ocean through education, therapy, leadership and environmental action.

At Hout Bay Beach, Sentinel Ocean Alliance is bringing together children from different communities through a range of programmes designed to build confidence, teach vital water-safety skills and develop a deeper connection with the marine environment.

A skill that can save a life

Programme Manager Emlynn Spogter said the organisation's work is about much more than simply getting children into the water.

Water safety remains one of the most important lessons they teach.

"We are always encouraging water safety and showing our kids how they can remain safe when around or in water," Spogter said.

"It's important for our kids, and it's a skill that can save their lives or the lives of others."

From learning to leading

Through Sentinel Ocean Alliance's programmes, Children learn how to understand the water, how to stay safe, and how to respond when faced with potentially dangerous situations.

Through the Parley Ocean School, children learn about the ocean and protecting it.

The Turn the Tide programme focuses on water safety, confidence and wellbeing, while Ocean Sentinels develops leadership and encourages young people to become long-term advocates for the ocean.

The organisation also runs Parley Coastal Cleanups, giving children an opportunity to move from learning about the environment to actively helping protect it.