Primary school pupils have been enjoying swimming lessons without having to leave their school grounds after a pop-up pool appeared in their playground.

Bligh Primary School in Bligh Way, Strood, is playing host to the 10mx5m swimming pool throughout the summer term as a trial project by sports coach provider Teamtheme.

The school raised the necessary cash through the pupil parliament fundraising team and used part of its own budget.

Head teacher Christian Markham said: “As part of our vision to ensure our pupils are secondary-ready, we know that learning to swim is a key skill as they move through to adulthood.

“However, we found it difficult to book slots at the local swimming pool, not to mention the cost and time required to transport the children.”

The project began after a parent poll at the school revealed 70% of pupils were unable to swim and 20% had never had a swimming lesson.

The lockable structure was installed during the May half term, along with a marquee and changing facilities.

It is part of a programme by Swim: ED aimed at breaking down barriers to participation in physical activity and address the statistic that one in four children in England leaves primary school unable to swim 25 metres.

More than 450 children have taken part in swimming lessons already.

One pupil said: “It’s so much more intimate than a sports centre. We’re so lucky.”

Mr Markham added: “The children have been amazing, showing the resilience and teamwork we expect from Bligh children. It’s been fantastic to see the progress they have made in such a short time.

“For some children, it’s simply about increasing their confidence in the water, while others are now managing to perfect their butterfly technique.”