SAIL Framework & Endorsement
A framework providing guidance to swim schools and aquatic facilities in delivering Specialised Access and Inclusion Lessons (SAIL).

Swimming lessons build confidence, connection and essential water safety skills, but not everyone has the same opportunity to participate.

People with disabilities, developmental differences or additional support needs can face barriers such as limited access to suitable programs, specialised instruction and affordable lessons.

Royal Life Saving WA's Specialised Access and Inclusion Lessons (SAIL) Framework provides guidance to help swim schools and aquatic facilities address these barriers.

The SAIL Framework is founded on the belief that every person, regardless of disability, developmental difference, or additional support needs, deserves access to safe, meaningful, and empowering aquatic experiences.

It recognises that water is both a vital environment for learning essential life skills and a powerful therapeutic space. The Framework therefore seeks to remove the barriers that have traditionally prevented equitable participation.

SAIL Endorsement recognises providers who meet standards for safe, high-quality and inclusive swimming and water safety education.

SAIL Framework

The SAIL framework aims to:

  • Deliver lifelong water safety skills that equip individuals with the knowledge, confidence, and practical ability to navigate aquatic environments safely throughout their lives.
  • Reduce drowning risk by ensuring no person is excluded from foundational swimming and water safety education due to disability or additional needs, closing a critical gap in community safety.
  • Provide a supported pathway into mainstream aquatic participation, offering structured progression that respects individual capability while promoting inclusion in broader community programs.
  • Promote holistic wellbeing across physical, social, and emotional domains through intentional, adaptive, and engaging aquatic experiences that foster confidence, connection, and personal growth.

Download the SAIL Framework

SAIL Endorsement

SAIL Endorsement recognises aquatic facilities and swim programs that deliver safe, inclusive, high‑quality swimming lessons for people with disabilities. These standards ensure programs meet best‑practice requirements in training, safety, accessibility, safeguarding, and reporting.

Facilities endorsed as SAIL locations demonstrate excellence in disability inclusion and aquatic safety and show a strong commitment to supporting people with disabilities through adaptive training and accessible facilities.

SAIL Endorsement Process
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Step 1.
Submit a SAIL Endorsement Application & Checklist.
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Step 2.
The application and checklist are reviewed through an internal assessment process.
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Step 3.
Applicants who meet the required criteria will be granted an endorsement.
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Step 4.
Endorsements are reviewed annually and must be renewed to maintain endorsement status.

SAIL ENDORSEMENT REQUIREMENTS

SAIL Endorsement Benefits
  • Recognition as a Royal Life Saving WA Endorsed SAIL Provider
    Demonstrates your commitment to delivering high-quality, accessible swimming and water safety education for people with disability and diverse support needs.
  • Trusted Quality Mark
    Provides families, carers and referral agencies with confidence that lessons are delivered in line with recognised inclusion standards and best practice.
  • Staff Capability and Professional Development
    Access to specialised inclusion resources, training opportunities and industry guidance to support continuous improvement.
  • Industry Leadership
    Positions endorsed providers as leaders in aquatic inclusion and accessibility within their communities.
  • Enhanced Partnerships and Referrals
    Strengthens connections with disability organisations, schools, allied health professionals and community support services.
  • Continuous Improvement Framework
    Supports ongoing review of accessibility, participant outcomes and inclusive teaching practices.
  • Use of SAIL Endorsement Branding
    Permission to display the SAIL endorsed logo and promotional materials to demonstrate commitment to inclusion.
  • Contribution to Safer Communities
    Supports equitable access to vital swimming and water safety skills for all members of the community

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