Inclusive Lessons Free to Access Through Bursaries Supported by Trigon
PRINCE RUPERT, APRIL 23rd, 2026 – Offerings at your local pool are set to be more inclusive than ever this Spring. The Recreation Department has a number of Sensory swims coming up, with the first one of the season set for April 26th from 12-2pm. During these swims the City, in partnership with North Coast Community Services will also be offering FREE Mini Try-It! Inclusive Swim Lessons.
Mini Try It! Sessions will give participants a taste of what Inclusive lessons are all about and if it is a right fit for them. Visit our information table during the Sensory Swims for more information and intake forms for the Inclusive Lessons.
Inclusive lessons are being made possible thanks to a bursary program provided by Trigon. Their generous support is enabling us to provide these specialized lessons free of charge to qualifying youth in our community.
“Swimming is a life-saving skill, and inclusion matters. We’re pleased to partner in support of programming that helps a wider range of youth to feel confident in the water”, says Trigon President & CEO Craig Olley.
These lessons are geared for neurodiverse participants so that they can benefit from low participant numbers or one-on-one swim instructor supports in a supportive setting.
“These sessions offer focused activities that provide focus on balance, cross body coordination, joint attention and engagement, and building body strength in a dedicated way,” Michelle MacNeill, Executive Director of North Coast Community Services Society. “Our focus at North Coast Community Services Society is to improve families’ quality of life by fostering inclusion and independence, while increasing access to a wide range of supportive therapies and community resources and these lessons help us fulfill this mission.”
This programming aligns with the City’s Accessibility Plan to ensure that Recreation programming is inclusive of the diverse needs of the community.
“Our goal is to create spaces where everyone feels comfortable, supported, and able to participate. These Sensory Swims and Inclusive Lessons are an important step toward removing barriers and ensuring all individuals and families in our community can enjoy recreation in a way that works for them,” said Brian Millis, Manager of Recreation and Community Services for the City.
What does a Sensory Swim look like?
Sensory Swims will be limited to 39 patrons to help maintain a calm and quiet environment. While we will not be turning patrons away, attendees will be asked by staff to keep noise levels low and allow space for those who benefit from a sensory-friendly setting.
Swim Accommodations:
- Half pool lights on
- Lobby lights off
- Hot tub jets off
- Hot tub lights off
- Music off
- Slide on
- Fountains on (set gently, originally advertised as off, fountains will run gently as they are enjoyed by children.)
- • Sensory Safe Tent set up
- • Fidget toys available (please ensure they are returned after use)
Additional Sensory Swims are scheduled for April 26th, May 24th, and June 28th from 12 pm – 2 pm.
Families interested in learning more about this programming can reach out to Trysta Dutton, Aquatic Coordinator at trysta.dutton@princerupert.ca. Participants are able to self-refer and will be assessed on a case-by-case basis and/or participants can be referred to this program by North Coast Community Services. Be sure to stay up to date on this and our other programs by visiting and following our Facebook page at @Prince Rupert Recreation.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Veronika Stewart, Manager of Communications, Engagement and Social Development
Office: (250) 627 0976
Cell: (778) 884 6285
Email: veronika.stewart@princerupert.ca