► NPLQ Training

The University of London Union is an accredited NPLQ centre and hosts its own National Pool Lifeguard Qualification course including AED training that is open to both UoL students and non students.

What is NPLQ?

The RLSS UK National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) is the most awarded lifeguard qualification in the United Kingdom and Ireland that complies with the industry guidance contained within the HSE publication 'Managing Health and Safety in Swimming Pools' Generally, the NPLQ is a recruitment requirement for a number of jobs from Pool Lifeguard to Centre Manager. On successful completion of the course you will be fully qualified to work as a Pool Lifeguard.

When does it run?

Courses run throughout the year, usually during half terms and reading weeks as participants must be free for 5 consecutive days to complete the course. Teaching hours are 8am-5pm and full attendance is required. Upto date information about when courses are running can be found on rlsscourses.org.uk. or on our ULU Lifeguards facebook page

How much does it cost?

UoL Students £160
Non UoL Students £240
Fees must be paid in full before a place can be confirmed on the course
*must produce valid student ID and be studying full time at a UoL college.

How do i sign up?

To sign up please contact David Adams on [email protected] or 02076642009 with your details and which advertised course you would like to attend.

Why become a lifeguard?

The University of London Union are always hiring lifeguards to supervise its pool activities and an NPLQ certificate is a mandatory requirement. The hours are flexible to fit around your study and open up opportunities within the leisure industry.

• The NPLQ course includes first aid training and teaches you how to use a defibrillator.

• Many UoL colleges have water based clubs and societies and an NPLQ certificate will improve your swimming technique and water safety making you an ideal candidate for a leadership role within the group.

• You will have the opportunity to compete at the National Pool Lifeguard Championships (team event) and the Lifeguard Triathlon.

• Lastly but still very importantly, you will gain a life skill that will come in handy for the rest of your life that could lead to enhanced career progression and a stepping stone to the National Pool Management Qualification (NPMQ).

What are the pre requisites for doing the course?

Every candidate, prior to commencement of a National Pool Lifeguard Qualification course, must be 18 years of age prior to commencing a course of training and be able to meet the following basic fitness criteria:

• 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 at least 30 seconds.

• Surface dive to the floor of the pool.

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

Course content

Training and assessment for the NPLQ is in three sections and all must be successfully passed to attain the NPLQ.

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 – Automated External Defibrillation (AED)
Element 2 – First Aid

RLSS UK NPLQ Course Assessment

Assessment for the NPLQ takes place at the conclusion of a training course for a minimum of 36 hours for new candidates. It determines your knowledge and understanding of the principles of working as a pool lifeguard. The assessment will also determine your ability to apply the skills and knowledge in a work-related environment as they would apply in a swimming pool. Your ability is assessed in a range of lifeguarding skills which enable you to deal with common emergency situations in pools.