The Amateur Swimming Association (ASA) has announced that David Lloyd Leisure (DLL) has become the latest company to adopt the National Plan for Teaching Swimming (NPTS).

DLL will implement the plan alongside the national governing body's Award Scheme across its estate of 78 UK clubs, and was one of the first operator's to form a business partnership with the ASA seven years ago.

The NPTS is designed to provide a comprehensive teaching programme for people of all ages, with participants able to take part in training elements of water polo and rookie lifeguard courses alongside learning to swim.

DLL head of family and programming Sarah Hobbs said: "The teaching programme is excellent and provides children with the opportunity to learn and love swimming and other water based activities.

"At David Lloyd Leisure we have fantastic facilities for learning to swim and can offer both indoor and outdoor swimming. Combining our facilities and resources with the ASA we can encourage our members to swim for life."

Pamela Brown, brand experience manager at British Gas - sponsor of the NPTS, added: "Unfortunately one in five children leave school unable to swim 25m. Swimming is a life skill and every child should have the opportunity to learn to swim."