The Royal Life Saving Society UK's (RLSS UK) NPLQ is the most awarded lifeguard qualification in the UK and Ireland and is also internationally recognised. Over 40,000 lifeguards qualify with the RLSS UK pool lifeguard course every year, and there are currently more than 75,000 lifeguards qualified in the NPLQ.
The NPLQ covers all elements of Pool Rescue Techniques, Lifeguarding Theory, First Aid and CPR. The course is physically demanding and will include swimming to set times, lifting casualties and diving to the deepest part of the swimming pool. Training and assessment for the NPLQ are in three sections, and candidates must successfully pass all to attain the qualification.
Lifeguard Course Prerequisites
Every candidate attending a National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) course must be 16-years-old or above at the time of taking the NPLQ final assessment and 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 (King Alfred Leisure Centre is 2.5M deep)
- Climb out unaided without ladder/steps and where the pool design permits
Benefits
- An excellent starting point for a career in the leisure industry
- Opportunity for career progression as most leisure managers start as Pool Lifeguards
- Varied working hours
- Work within a team
- The NPLQ is recognised around the world, so potential to work and travel
- A great way for students to fund studies
- Learn essential life skills, including First Aid and CPR
Frequently Asked Questions
The NPLQ is the UK and Ireland’s most awarded swimming pool Lifeguard qualification, and NPLQ stands for National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ). It is awarded by RLSS UK Qualifications, and 95% of lifeguards in UK swimming pools hold an NPLQ.
A NPLQ is valid for two years and can be renewed during the period of validity
Course cost £320
We run courses every school holidays at Prince Regent Swimming Complex and King Alfred Leisure Centre, so what are you waiting for? Come speak to Ben and the team about gaining your NPLQ qualification and learning to save lives!
Email [email protected] to start your journey today!