Adolescence is a time of independence, confidence-building, and naturally increased risk-taking. It is also the stage where young people begin to spend more time unsupervised around rivers, lochs, beaches, and pools, often underestimating the dangers that water can present.
Our SOS Teens Program is designed to meet young people exactly where they are in this stage of life. Instead of simply telling teenagers what not to do, we engage them as leaders, role models, and advocates for safety within their own peer groups.
Through a combination of water safety education, swimming development, and practical leadership training, the programme empowers teens to make informed decisions around water and to influence the behaviour of others. By building both confidence and competence in the water, we help transform risk-taking into responsible action.
Pools and open water are worlds apart, and for this reason we ensure all our SOS teens have the opportunity to visit a natural beauty spot, work on hazard detection and get to understand the risks associated with cold water. They also learn safe bystander rescue and basic CPR, so if the worst every happens, they feel confident to act whilst keeping themselves safe.
Crucially, the programme also opens real pathways into future opportunities within the aquatic sector. Participants are introduced to potential progression routes such as swim instruction, lifeguarding, and youth aquatic development programmes such as nippers-style activities. This creates not only safer young people, but future professionals who can help keep others safe.
By investing in teenagers at this pivotal stage, we are not just reducing risk, we are building a generation of water-aware leaders who can change behaviours, save lives, and inspire lasting cultural change around water safety.
