NPLQ

The RLSS UK National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) is the most awarded lifeguard qualification in the United Kingdom and Ireland and is also internationally recognised. The NPLQ is an excellent starting point for anyone looking for a career in the leisure industry.

The NPLQ course is a minimum of 36 hours long followed by a practical assessment on pool lifeguard theory, pool rescue, first aid and CPR. There is also the option to obtain additional qualifications during an NPLQ course including: Emergency First Aid at Work Certificate, First Aid at Work Certificate (Additional 2 hours training) & Automated External Defibrillation Certificate (AED) (Additional 1.5 hours training).

Benefits of NPLQ

• Excellent starting point for a career in the leisure industry
• Opportunity for career progression
• Varied working hours
• Work as part of a team
• The NPLQ is recognised around the world, potential to work and travel
• Great way for students to fund studies
• Learn essential life skills, including First Aid and CPR

Lifeguard Course Pre-Requisites

Every candidate attending a NPLQ course must be 16-years-old 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
• Climb out unaided without ladder / steps and where the pool design permits

Course Content

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 is in three sections and all must be successfully passed to attain the qualification.

Section 1 – The Lifeguard and the Law, Swimming Pool Supervision

Element 1 – The Lifeguard and the Law
Element 2 – Swimming Pool, Hazards and Control Measures
Element 3 – Swimming Pool Supervision

Section 2 – Intervention and Rescue and Emergency Action Plans

Element 1 – Intervention and Rescue
Element 2 – Rescue of a Casualty with a Suspected Spinal Injury
Element 3 – Emergency Action Plan

Section 3 – Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, AED and First Aid

Element 1 – Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
Element 2 – First Aid
Element 3 – Automated External Defibrillation (AED)

For more information about the NPLQ course please email Katie Harrop or see course details and application forms available on the right hand side of this page.