National Pool Lifeguard Qualifications

The National Pool Lifeguard Qualification was launched in 1989 in direct response to the criteria set out in the HSC/Sports Council Guidance “Safety in Swimming Pools”.

 To gain the qualification, candidates must pass both of the units below:

• Unit one: The principles of Life Saving and swimming pool supervision.
• Unit two: The application of supervision and rescue in a swimming pool.

Qualifying Criteria to Undertake Lifeguard Training

All candidates for the pool lifeguards course must be able to swim, be physically fit with good vision and hearing.

The following minimum standard required is:

• Be able to swim 100 metres continually on both front and back strokes.

• Able to swim 50 metres on their front in 60 seconds maximum.

• Recover a manikin from a minimum depth of 1.5 metres.

• Tread water for a minimum time of 30 seconds.

The pool lifeguard course is physically demanding and will include swimming to set times, lifting casualties and diving to the deepest part of the pool. If you are suffering from any of the following conditions you are advised to consult your medical practitioner before participating:

• Heart trouble, angina, or high blood pressure
• Asthma or breathing difficulties
• Back or neck trouble, injury or arthritis
• Any injury to a joint
• Fainting, diabetes or epilepsy
• Ear infection or hearing difficulties
• Any other injury, disease or illness that may be aggravated by swimming, lifting or entering deep water

Course Dates 2012

Course 1 25th – 26th February 3rd – 4th March 10th – 11th March

Course 2 28th- 29th April 2nd – 3rd May 12th – 13th May

Course 3 28th – 29th July 4th – 5th August 11th – 12th August

Course 4 27th- 28th October 3rd – 4th November 10th – 11th November

Course Cost 2012

£200 which includes all assessment fees and course material