Training and qualification courses

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National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ)

Course description

The UK National Pool Lifeguard Qualification is the most awarded lifeguard qualification in the UK and Ireland that complies with the industry requirements and is supported by RLSS, ASA, ISRM and HSE. This qualification is a recruitment requirement for a number of leisure jobs from Pool Lifeguard to Centre Manager. On successful completion of this course you will be fully qualified to work as a Pool Lifeguard in the UK.

Course details

The NPLQ course is 38 hours in duration, comprising both physical training and theoretical classroom work, followed by a water based practical test, dry assessment on pool rescue, first aid, CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) and lifesaving skills.

This course consists of 2 units:

  • Unit 1 - The Principles of Lifesaving and Swimming Pool Supervision
  • Unit 2 - The Application of Supervision and Rescue in a Swimming Pool

A qualification will only be awarded on the successful completion of both units and is valid for 2 years from the date if issue.

Applicant criteria

All applicants must be 16 years or over on the start date of the course and must be able to:

  • Jump/dive into deep water
  • Swim 50 metres in less 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 of pool unaided (without ladder/steps) where pool design permits

Further information

The next course is planned for Summer 2012 (July/August - dates to be confirmed) and will run for 5 consecutive weeks, 9am-5pm each Tuesday. An Assessment Day will follow the completion of the 5 sessions. Please register your interest in the first instance with Teddington Pools & Fitness Centre Reception on 020 8977 9911 or by emailing Tony Riches, Duty Manager at: tony.riches@richmond.gov.uk.

Course price: £250.00

Teddington Pools & Fitness Centre
Vicarage Road, Teddington TW11 8EZ

Telephone: 020 8977 9911
Email: leisure@richmond.gov.uk (this email address does not directly go to Teddington Pools & Fitness Centre).