The selection process and timescale
The selection process includes detailed application forms; timed pool swims; lake swims; outward bound type challenges and, of course, sea swims.
| Dates | Project Stage |
| Sept-Dec 2008 | Advertise project. Children request information pack and apply to come to initial selection day in Feb/March 2009. |
| Feb/Mar2009 | Selection stage one: indoor pool. Timed 1000m swim plus initial medical forms. Presentation to parents and children about the project. Opportunity to ask questions and find out more. |
| June+Sept 2009 | Selection stage two: open water selection I and II, Henleaze lake, Bristol |
| Sept/Oct 2009 | Selection stage three: first sea swims, Southbourne |
| Oct–Dec2009 | Selection stage four: Final selection of squad of 8 (6 plus 2 reserves) |
| Easter 2010 | Training camp |
| Apr-Aug 2010 | Final training – culminating in continuous 2 hour swim in sea |
| Aug 17th, 2010 | World Record Attempt – youngest ever team to swim the English Channel |
Selection criteria
All selection decisions will be made by the Head Coach Penny Porter. She will take into consideration the following:
- Technical swimming skills
- Time for 1000m freestyle
- Attitude and commitment
- Previous experience
- Cold water adaptation
- Sea swimming adaptation
- Team working potential
- Age (those born in April, May, June, July or early August (of 1998) will be at an advantage, see FAQs)
