How To Become A Beach Lifeguard

Ages 16 + Years

The NVBLQ is a RNLI and RLSS standard in beach lifeguarding. This qualification enables you to apply for Beach lifeguarding job in Ireland, UK, and abroad. The NVBLQ course is a minimum of 40 hours long followed by a practical assessment on beach theory, life support, first aid, swimming pool practical and open water practical. The NVBLQ certificate is valid for two years from the date of successful completion.

 

Course Pre-requisites

  • Jump/dive into deep water
  • Swim 400m in a recommended time of 7mins 30 secs
  • Have surfed a number of times – does not need to be proficient on their feet but be able to paddle out back easily
  • Swim 200m continuously on their front and back
  • Run at least 400m
  • Surface dive up to 2m
  • Have had previous surf lessons before coming onto the course
  • Ability to swim side stroke or inverted breaststroke

National Vocational Beach Lifeguard Qualification (NVBLQ)

How The Programme Works

The NVBLQ covers all elements of beach lifeguard theory, Cardio Plulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), First Aid, Pool Skills & Open Water Skills. The couses is physically demanding and will include swimming to set times as well as lifting. The NVBLQ is comprised of four modules and all must be successfully passed to attain qualification.

 

Module 1

Beach Lifeguarding & Understanding

 

Module 2

Life Support & First Aid

 

Module 3

Ocean Skills

Module 4

Pool Skills

Benefits of Becoming a Beach Lifeguard

  • The NVBLQ is internationally recognised, so potential to work and travel
  • Work within a team
  • Great way for students to fund studies
  • Learn essential life skills, including First Aid and CPR

About The Assesment

The NVBLQ assessment takes place at the end of the course. It determines your competence, skills and knowledge of working as a beach lifeguard and assesses your ability to apply the skills and knowledge in a beach environment.

The assessment is split into five elements:

  • Beach Lifeguard and First Aid Theory
  • Life Support and First Aid
  • First Aid Practical
  • Ocean Skills
  • Pool Skills