Train to become a lifeguard
Want to learn lifesaving skills, build your confidence and gain a qualification that could lead to a rewarding career?
The National Pool Lifeguarding Qualification (NPLQ) is so much more than learning how to supervise a swimming pool.
"A life-changing qualification"
The NPLQ course is comprehensive qualification developing lifesaving, first aid, rescue and teamwork skills, while helping candidates build confidence and prepare for real-life emergencies.
“This is a life-changing qualification. Most emergencies happen without warning and it’s all about thinking on your feet and trusting your instincts. It’s always better to react rather than not do anything at all. The course should give candidates vitally important lifesaving and first aid skills, and a completely different outlook on situations. You could be that first person on scene and being confident enough to get involved could make a massive difference to any situation.”
Gareth Gloyn, Training Officer, Lincs Inspire
What does the NPLQ course involve?
Lincs Inspire’s courses are delivered in a relaxed but controlled environment, combining practical pool-based training, theory sessions and classroom learning.
Candidates can expect to be in the water every day, developing skills including water rescues, casualty tows, spinal board work, alongside First Aid and how to respond to a range of potential emergencies.
Each day begins with a group discussion and recap before candidates move on to new topics, which can include both practical and theory-based activities.
Building Skills and Confidence
For recent candidate Katie Bennett, the course provided an opportunity to learn new skills while meeting people and developing her confidence.
Katie, who has a passion for dance and the performing arts, had previously spent five years in the Army Cadets. She chose lifeguarding as an opportunity to gain valuable experience and learn first aid.
“The course has massively developed my confidence and made me a more organised, eager person that now always looks out to prevent dangers and help others.”
Katie hopes to continue lifeguarding alongside her performing arts ambitions.
From Rookie Lifeguard to NPLQ
For Year 12 student Ruby, completing the NPLQ was the next step in a journey that began in the pool at a young age.
Ruby previously completed Lincs Inspire’s swimming awards before taking part in the Rookie Lifeguard programme at Cleethorpes Leisure Centre.
“I completely loved learning about the first aid and water rescues! As soon as I could, I signed up for the NPLQ”
Ruby particularly enjoyed the practical elements of the course, including water rescues, tows and using the spinal board. She also said the training had taught her to be more aware of the risks around a swimming pool.
Ruby hopes to secure a lifeguarding role with Lincs Inspire after qualifying.
Developing Teamwork
Brooklynn was attracted to lifeguarding after spending much of her younger years swimming competitively and recreationally. She particularly enjoyed learning about the different skills lifeguards need beyond supervising the pool.
One of her biggest challenges was learning how to deal with a potential spinal injury, while her most important lesson was understanding how to recognise early symptoms and know how to help someone.
“Training with other people who want the same thing to pass the course has definitely brought us all together and made me feel comfortable in a team.”
She believes the qualification has increased her confidence both as a potential lifeguard and in everyday life.
Congratulations to our most recent successful candidates
Well done to Brooklyn, Ruby, Issy, Katie, Grace and Sam, who all passed our most recent NPLQ Course!
