Charles Raeburn - former President 1985 to 1990
It is with great sadness that Scottish Schools Swimming Association announces the passing of Charles Raeburn, former President of SSSA, 1985 to 1990. Our thoughts and sympathy go to Charlie's family and friends and we thank him for his long service as a volunteer with our organisation.
Scottish Schools Swimming Association Championship Changes
The timing of the qualifying rounds and the championship final in the winter months has been a challenge due to adverse weather conditions in recent years and we also recognise that there have been clashes with prelim exams as well as other swimming events which have excluded participation.
To improve participation and to reduce issues in relation to weather events, the qualifying rounds will now take place in a window across Mid-February to Mid-April 2026, followed by a final in June 2026. The change in dates avoids issues with exam timetables and provide a longer window for regions to organise their qualifying rounds.
The final will also become a two day event to incorporate the SSSA team championship. The team finals in recent years has suffered from low entry levels and combining the individual and team championships should increase participation levels and create a more competitive event.
Please note that the exact date and venue of the final have still to be agreed and these details will be announced at a later date.
To successfully run these events we rely on volunteers, particularly at the area level, we would urge you to step up and support in any way that you can and your first step here is to reach out to the area representatives, their details are found here.
FAQs
Q1.Our area has already organised an event in November 2025 can this continue?
A1. No, our qualifying window is Mid-February to Mid-April 2026, any event outside that window is not approved by SSSA and will not count towards qualification for the final.
Q2. Our area doesn’t have a representative, how can I step up to help run an event for our area?
A2. Please reach out to info@scottishschoolsswimming.co.uk advising which area your school is in and we will help explain what is required.
Q3. What type of assistance is required at area events?
A3. Support will vary by area so please ask your local co-ordinator but typically help is needed to time the swimmers, collate results, and to marshall the swimmers for their swims.
Q4. When will we know more details about qualifying events?
A4. Details will be issued by your area representative to schools in your area, given the change of dates this will be at some point in early 2026.
Q5. When will we know the venue and date of the finals?
A5. This information will be published on Social Media and the Website as soon as details are confirmed.
Q6. Will there be any changes to the qualifying year for swimmers?
A6. No, age as at 31 December on the year of the final will still apply
