The internationally recognised Royal Lifesaving Society (RLSS UK) National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) is not only a qualification that will train you to become a Pool Lifeguard but can also be a stepping stone into a career within the leisure industry. The NPLQ requires a minimum of 36.5 hours (5 days) training and requires 100% attendance. The Assessment will take place on the 6th day. In order to perform lifeguard duties candidates must be physically fit, have good vision and hearing, be mentally alert and self disciplined.
2024 course dates
14th, 15th. 21st, 22nd, 28th, 29th June 2025
11th – 16th August 2025
13th – 18th October 2025
How to Sign up
You can Sign up via our online form here:
Course Cost
£280 (inc VAT) per person
Course Aim
To provide the theoretical and practical knowledge and skills to carry out the duties of a pool lifeguard.
Course Structure
PowerPoint Presentations
Flip Chart Exercises
Guided Group Discussions
Guided Group Activities
Practical Demonstrations and Training The NPLQ certificate is valid for 2 years from the date of successful independent assessment.
The training given to candidates consists of knowledge and skills on the following areas
The Lifeguard, Swimming Pool & Supervision:
The Lifeguard and the law
Swimming Pool hazards and control measures
Swimming Pool supervision
Intervention, Rescue and Emergency action plan:
Intervention and rescue
Rescue of a casualty with a suspected spinal injury
Emergency action plan Cardiopulmonary resuscitation and First Aid:
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation
First Aid
Course assessment
The course syllabus and practical skills are continually assessed by the course trainer and a suitable level competence must be achieved to be put forward for a final independent assessment. The assessment will include multiple choice paper, practical demonstrations of water rescue skills, CPR, First Aid and AED (the AED is assessed by the course tutor). Bring photographic ID.
Course Award
The National Pool Lifeguard revised 10th Generation Certificate. Anaphylaxis and AED Awards.
Candidates
- Must be over 16 years of age prior to assessment
- Complete 40 hours of training minimum to cover all aspects of current NPLQ Assessment
- Complete exercises in “The Lifeguard Manual”.
- Must be able to meet the following basic fitness criteria:
- Jump/dive into deep water
- Swim 50 metres in no more than 60 seconds
- Swim 100 metres continuously on front and back
- In deep water, tread water for 30 seconds
- Surface dive to the floor of the pool
- Climb out unaided without ladder/steps and where the pool design permits
What to Bring
You are required to bring the following items to the course:
- Photographic identification (must be shown to the trainer on the first day of the course)
- Swimming Costume
- Towel
- Shorts and t-shirt to be worn in the water
- Pen/Pencil
Tutor
Courses are conducted by experienced qualified Royal Life Saving Society (RLSS) Training Assessors.
How to Sign up
You can Sign up via our online form here: