WSM

Water Safety Methodology Project: Key Milestones from the First 6 Months

The Water Safety Methodology (WSM) project, implemented in collaboration with the Latvian Beach Lifeguard Association and supported by the Interreg Central Baltic programme, is steadily progressing toward its main goal — the development of a modern, school-adapted water safety programme for youth aged 14–18 using non-formal education methods.

Achievements in the First Six Months

🔹 Quality Assurance
The team has developed comprehensive surveys and feedback tools designed to assess students’ knowledge and behavior. These instruments are tailored for easy integration into school environments.

🔹 Programme Content
The curriculum is built on best international practices from the Netherlands, the UK, Finland, and others, complemented by insights from professional lifeguards, educators, and young people themselves. This collaborative approach ensures that the content is both practical and relevant.

🔹 Collaboration & Knowledge Exchange
Cross-border meetings in Estonia and Latvia, Steering Committee sessions, and participation in lifesaving competitions have provided valuable opportunities to refine and improve the programme, making it more adaptable and applicable.

🔹 Pilot Testing & Feedback
Initial testing took place at Mustjõe High School with 11th and 12th-grade students. A second testing round with 10th graders is planned for May. The project is being developed in cooperation with the Ministry of Education and the National Institute for Health Development to ensure it aligns with the national education system. Feedback is actively used to enhance the methodology.

Project Impact

  • 89% of project participants rate the collaboration as effective.
  • Regular feedback loops help to continuously improve the implementation process.

The Value of International Cooperation

The integration of Estonian and Latvian expertise is helping to build a flexible and regionally relevant methodology. The exchange of knowledge, cultural context, and European best practices strengthens the quality and reach of the programme across the Central Baltic region.

What’s Next?

The testing phase continues, with upcoming steps including school-level implementation, additional events, and refinement of the curriculum. We are moving closer to creating a unified, evidence-based programme that empowers young people to feel confident and safe around water.

We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who believes in the importance of our mission and supports the WSM project!