National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ)
Become a qualified lifeguard and gain an excellent start to a career in leisure!
We hold a number of courses throughout the year to give everybody the opportunity to become qualified lifeguards.
The National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) courses are certified by RLSS UK and provide the training required to become a qualified lifeguard. It is the most awarded lifeguard qualification in the UK and Ireland, and is internationally recognised. Barrow Park Leisure Centre is pleased to be able to offer this course.
The NPLQ course is a minimum of 36 hours, followed by a practical assessment on swimming pool theory, water safety and how to spot potential hazards. The course will teach you the practical skills of Pool Rescue Techniques, Lifeguard 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 pool.
Sonja is our qualified instructor who will be running your course and each candidate will receive their own NPLQ book on their first day.
Interested in learning a new skill? If you would like to attend our next NPLQ course, please email DM@barrowleisure.co.uk to register your interest.
What are the requirements to qualify for a National Lifeguard Qualification?
All applicants will need to qualify before being accepted onto our lifeguard qualification.
In accordance with the Royal Life Saving Society UK, you must be able to do the following to qualify:
- Swim 50m in less than 1 minute
- Swim 100m continuously on your front then 100m on your back
- Tread water in deep water for more than 30 seconds
- Surface dive to the deepest part of the pool
- Climb out of the pool unaided
- Be over 16 years old on the day of assessment
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I apply for a lifeguard qualification?
To apply for a National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) with us, simply register your interest with us by emailing DM@barrowleisure.co.uk and we will contact you with more information
How much does a lifeguard qualification cost?
Approximately £240
When are you running the next course?
We have planned to run the below NPLQ courses within the next 12 months:
Monday 17th July 2023– Saturday 22nd July 2023 (course Monday to Friday exam Saturday)
Monday 7th August 2023 – Saturday 12th August 2023 (course Monday to Friday exam Saturday)
Monday 23rd October 2023 – Saturday 28th October 2023 (course Monday to Friday exam Saturday)
Monday 12th February 2024 – Saturday 17th February 2024 (course Monday to Friday exam Saturday)
Monday 8th April 2024 – Saturday 13th April 2024 (course Monday to Friday exam Saturday)
Monday 27th May 2024 – Saturday 1st June 2024 (course Monday to Friday exam Saturday)
What does a typical day of the course look like?
Below you can see a rough itinerary that will be followed on the day of the course:
08:00 – 09:00am Lifeguard theory
09:00 – 09:15am Break to get changed
09:15 – 11:15am Practical in the pool
11.15 – 11:30am Break to get changed/snack
11:30 – 12:30pm Lifeguard Theory
12:30 – 1:00pm Lunch
1:00 – 3:00pm First Aid
3:00 – 3:15pm Break
3:15 – 5:00pm CPR