Hydrotherapy
We are very lucky at Mayfield to have our own pool. All pupils entitled to hydrotherapy will have 1:1 or very small group therapy sessions each week.
Our pool is also used for swimming lessons. In Lakes department, most pupils will have a weekly swimming slot with their class. This is supported by the staff in their class and Miranda, our pool attendant.
In Mountains Department, the pupils also use our pool but move to a termly swimming rota. For our more competent swimmers (or the taller ones!!), we have very good links with St Bees Pool and make use of their facilities.
To purchase adaptive swimming equipment, aids and swimwear please click here
The Physiological and Psychological benefits of Hydrotherapy:
- Increased muscle strength
- Increased aerobic capacity
- Improvement of gross motor functions
- Reduced joint loading and impact
- Decreasing the negative influence of poor balance and poor postural control through decreasing the influence of gravity
- Reduction of muscle tone/spasticity
- Stimulation of vocalization and language
- Improved toleration of touch, encouragement of eye contact
- Improved confidence and self-esteem
The Halliwick Method of Swim Instruction
Halliwick is a method of water orientation and swim instruction. The Halliwick Method originated in England, where in 1949, James McMillan, an engineer by profession, developed techniques for helping individuals with disabilities become independent swimmers.
Although the Halliwick Method can be used to teach any individual to swim, it is of particular benefit when used with individuals who have extreme fear, limited prior experiences in water, special health problems, and/or severe physical or multiple learning disabilities The basic purpose of the Halliwick Method is water freedom – total independent movement in water. After that is achieved, anything is possible.