BRIEF INTRODUCTION TO THE COURSE

The national pool lifeguard course covers 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. Please refer to the pre-requisites section for more details. 

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

• Section 2 – Intervention and Rescue and Emergency Action Plans

• Section 3 – Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, AED and First Aid

PREREQUESTICS

Candidates must be 16 years of age prior to commencement of course and meet the following basic fitness criteria:

• Jump/Dive into deep water 

• Swim 50m in no more than 60 seconds

• Swim 100m continuously on front and back

• Tread water for 30 seconds in deep water

• Surface dive to the pool floor

• Climb out unaided without ladder / steps where the pool design permits

DURATION

The NPLQ course is run over five days with the final assessment taking place on day six. 

ASSESSMENT

Assessment for the NPLQ takes place at the end of the course. It determines your knowledge and understanding of the principles of working as a pool lifeguard and assesses your ability to apply the skills and knowledge in a work-related environment.

The assessment is split into three sections:

• Practical pool assessment

• Theory Assessment for all 3 sections

• Practical First Aid & CPR assessment

Each NPLQ course is independently assessed by external examiners from the RLSS.

CERTIFICATION

The National Pool Lifeguard Qualification is valid for 2 years. Renewal courses available. 

PRICE

€450.00 per person