Professional lifesaving & rescue training

National Lifeguard & Rescue Training Courses

Lifeguarding and rescue qualifications aren’t one-size-fits-all. Some courses are designed to qualify you as a lifeguard, while others are built for teachers and coaches who supervise lessons in deeper water.

This page helps you quickly choose the right option by showing what each course is for, who it suits, and the next available dates — so you can book with confidence.

Upcoming dates See the next course runs and choose what fits your availability.
Entry requirements Know what you’ll need before you book (swims, dives, age).
Course options Compare NPLQ, NRASTC, and other rescue awards below.

National Rescue Award for Swimming Teachers and Coaches (NRASTC)

Next Available Dates: 13 April - 14 April 2026

The National Rescue Award for Swimming Teachers and Coaches (NRASTC) equips swimming teachers and coaches with the skills required to safely supervise swimming lessons and respond confidently to poolside emergencies.

A practical two-day course designed for programmed lessons in pools where learners are out of their depth, focusing on lifesaving skills, first aid, and effective class management in a real teaching environment.

What you’ll learn (2-day course)

  • Pool and class management
  • Intervention and rescue techniques
  • Emergency action planning
  • CPR and first aid
You’ll be assessed on
  • Poolside supervision and awareness
  • Safe and effective rescue responses
  • Clear communication in emergencies

Course prerequisites

  • Swim 50m on front and back
  • Surface dive to the deepest part of the pool
  • Climb out unaided (no steps or ladders, venue permitting)
Get more information

Book Your Place Now!

National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ)

Next Available Dates:
30 March – 3 April 2026
13 July – 17 July 2026
24 August – 28 August 2026

The National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) is the industry-standard lifeguard certification, recognised across swimming pools and leisure facilities.

An intensive five-day course covering pool rescue techniques, casualty management, CPR, first aid, and lifeguarding theory so you can supervise swimmers and respond confidently to emergencies.

What you’ll learn

  • Pool rescue and casualty recovery
  • Lifeguarding theory and risk management
  • CPR and first aid
You’ll be assessed on
  • Rescue response and decision-making
  • Practical CPR and first aid scenarios
  • Safe supervision and communication

Course prerequisites

  • Jump or dive into deep water
  • Swim 50m in under 60 seconds
  • Swim 100m continuously on front and back
  • Tread water for 30 seconds
  • Surface dive to the pool floor
  • Climb out unaided (no ladder/steps, venue permitting)
Get more information

Book Your Place Now!

Adults' Swimming Accessories

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Don’t wait any longer to gain this invaluable skill. Sign up for swimming lessons today and take the first step toward becoming a confident, capable swimmer. Whether you want to refine your technique, build endurance, or simply enjoy the water, we’re here to help you reach your goals.

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