The course, a 20-25 hour online learning programme, aims to provide a point of entry to those looking to get involved in classification of swimmers.

It ensures those who complete the programme have a greater knowledge, skill-set and competence of what is expected as a classifier.

The programme includes the most up-to-date description of the classification rules and uses specially compiled footage to demonstrate and highlight learning outcomes while it also has updated imagery, interactive quizzes, animations and many other features.

"This programme's launch is a major step forward for the sport of Para-swimming and it's a credit to all involved that we have such a tool now available," said the IPC chief executive, Xavier Gonzalez.

"Any successful parasport needs good quality classifiers and this holistic learning pathway provides a structure that allows the sport to develop throughout the regions and a resource for the NPCs to build upon.

"It will improve classification at all levels benefiting athletes, administrators, competitions and the sport alike."

In addition, the IPC Academy is developing a complete series of programmes to complete the pathway through competency assessed initiatives which will be delivered by experienced and certified educators.

The programme is the second online learning programme to be launched in recent months following October's launch of the Athletics Technical Officials programme.

"It is a very important area for both sport performance and development to ensure that athletes are provided the best classification opportunities," said Chris Solly, the Director of the IPC Academy.

"With this programme now launched along with the Athletics Technical Officials programme, we are quickly achieving the desire to provide the tools and resources required for the IPC sports to further develop in the coming years.

"The programme can be easily accessed by all at www.ipc-academy.org."

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