Post Course Training

Your final exam to gain the Beach Lifeguard qualification is not the end of your training, in fact it is only the start.

The course will give you the basic skills needed to become a lifeguard but you will learn far more when you subsequently work on a beach as a lifeguard (either paid or voluntary).

You must undertake regular training throughout the 2-year validity of your qualification, otherwise you will not be able to renew it.

NSVL conducts training throughout the year and all newly-qualified lifeguards are welcome to come along. Training is not always formal - it can just be going for a swim or a paddle on the boards, but you are always learning more about how to handle yourself in the sea.

There are also a number of additional qualifications which can be taken to further your knowledge and skills. These include using defibrillators, rescue boats and further first aid qualifications. You could also become a pool lifeguard if you aren't already.

Newly-qualified lifeguards can provide safety cover during beach lifeguard courses and also voluntary lifeguard cover on the beaches of North Tyneside while our trainers take employed lifeguards off the beach for training.

You may also be interested in assisting with teaching Rookies - recognised teaching qualifications can be delivered within the club and within a few years you could be training the next generation of lifeguards!

Beach Lifeguard training takes place from 12.30-4.30pm on Sundays throughout the year at our beach base. Changing and shower facilities are available, along with kitchen facilities, toilets and training rooms.

A qualified trainer is always available to supervise training, either dry side or water work. Rescue equipment available for training includes a selection of rescue boards, skis and canoes, along with torpedo buoys and other personal safety equipment. A limited selection of wet suits/boots/gloves etc is available to borrow, but we advise that you have you own wet suit.

Pool Lifeguard training takes place on Sunday evenings from 5.00-7.00pm by qualified Pool/Beach Lifeguard Trainer Assessors. Dry-side theory/life support/first aid (suitable for both pool and beach lifeguards) is available at the beach base during the afternoon, then from 6-7pm there is water work in the pool.

All training can be signed off in your log book's CPD record. Extensive on-going training will impress prospective employers and will be essential if you wish to apply for a job as a lifeguard. At least 20 hours of logged training must be completed throughout the 2-year duration of your qualification, otherwise requalifying will only be possible by undertaking a full course again.

After the first two weeks if you decide to continue you must become a member of NSVL for insurance purposes. Current membership rates are £10 per year for senior members. Any member assisting during Rookies (as a lifeguard, teacher, assistant or poolside helper) is entitled to free pool entry, otherwise pool entry is £2. There is no charge for beach training sessions, but beach lifeguards are encouraged to come to the pool session as well.

Training will encompass the entire syllabus of knowledge and skills required under the current Lifeguard syllabus in a rolling programme. CPR skills (and spinal techniques for pool lifeguards) in particular will be covered on a regular basis. Check below to see what the training plan is for each week (subject to sufficient numbers).

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