Patricia Avenue School is helping children and young people with intellectual disabilities thrive. The Hamilton, New Zealand school serves students aged 5 to 21 in a warm and inclusive environment. Their commitment to helping students reach their potential extends beyond academics. Programs like water therapy—and their new SwimEx plunge pool—play an important role in students’ growth and well-being.
A Therapeutic Haven
Patricia Avenue School’s therapy team of 15 works tirelessly to support the diverse needs of its students. With a significant portion of their student population requiring additional physical support, the school recognized the importance of integrating water therapy into their program. This led to the installation of a SwimEx plunge pool, a facility that has quickly become central to the school’s therapy offerings.
SwimEx was the clear choice after careful evaluation. The school sought a solution that would fully meet their needs and streamline their grant funding. The process was smooth for everyone involved, despite minor COVID-19-related delays. Throughout, communication was open and transparent. When the pool arrived, local support was invaluable, and some of the equipment was stored at no cost until the school was ready for installation.
“It’s a really good size and quite deep,” says Leanne Robinson, physiotherapist & therapy leader at the school. The depth allows staff to stand comfortably during sessions, rather than be on their knees in shallow water. The therapy team also likes having built-in seats. “The pool is big enough for two students lying down at the same time. It’s a great social opportunity.”
Transforming Therapy Sessions
Before the SwimEx pool installation, transporting students to a local pool was complicated and time-consuming. Pool trips would take hours with a limited number of participating students. “Many of our students have set eating and care times, making it nearly impossible to find enough time to use a public pool,” says Leanne. Now, with the pool on-site, therapy sessions are streamlined. More students are benefiting from the therapeutic effects of water.
Students access the plunge pool with ease, thanks to a ceiling track hoist that extends from the changing room directly to the pool. This system allows for a smooth transition from the changing bed into the water. Thanks to the hoist, all students, regardless of mobility challenges or temperature sensitivity, can participate.
For students who use wheelchairs, water therapy is a game-changer. The buoyancy of the water offers these students a rare opportunity to move muscles they typically cannot engage. “When you’re in a wheelchair, your movement is limited to forward and backward or lying down,” explains Leanne. “The buoyancy allows them to move muscles they don’t typically move, increasing their strength, and improving their range of motion.”
Impactful Moments
The pool has already made a significant impact on the lives of Patricia Avenue School’s students. One young man, who hadn’t been in a pool for over four years, recently had his first swim. “He was a bundle of smiles,” shares Leanne. “It was the first time we saw him enjoy being in the water. He said it was warm and fun.”
“Many students enjoy music and singing, and the pool environment enhances these experiences,” says Leanne. These moments of joy and progress highlight the profound benefits of water therapy.
The calming effect of the warm water is helpful for students with extra sensory needs. The space is thoughtfully designed with bifold doors that let the sun stream in. It is a serene and inviting environment. A mirror on the ceiling adds an extra layer of enjoyment. Students love seeing themselves in the water!
“Public pools can be quite noisy, often hosting over 20 people at a time, ” notes Leanne. “It’s nearly impossible to maintain a quiet, peaceful atmosphere at a public pool.” The new space allows students to relax during their therapy sessions. Nearby satellite classes also benefit from the pool, finding comfort and safety in the private, contained setting.
Looking Forward
Patricia Avenue School’s journey highlights the profound impact of water therapy on the lives of individuals with disabilities. The pool has become an integral part of the school’s therapy program with benefits that go beyond physical rehabilitation. It’s a place of growth, connection, and, most importantly, joy for their students.