Mermaid swimming school proves to be popular

A unique school in Manila is helping young women make their marine dream a reality. The Philippine Mermaid Swimming Academy opened last May and has been attracting aquatic students of all ages.



Pupils pay 1,800 pesos, which is around £26.50, ($41), for a two-hour pool session and tutoring from a group of coaches that include scuba divers, free divers and competitive swimmers.

The school also provides mono-fins and a set of fake scales to complete the mermaid look. Instructor Arabelle Jiminez thinks mermaids have a lot to teach people: "We have this notion that the mermaids are beautiful, are playful, are fun, and adventurous, and graceful.


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"So that is what we want to impart to the kids also." The coaches teach their students to do dolphin kicks, bubble rings, handstands and blow kisses underwater. Teachers also hope graduates will leave with a renewed respect for marine life.