The NLA programme is designed to provide skills for life and includes beach, pool and open water elements. It is the first programme of its kind for the UK and Ireland that recognises prior learning for vocational lifeguard courses, officially acknowledging the skill development and growth of young lifesavers as well as addressing the national shortage of lifeguards.  

Our National Lifesaving Academy train alongside the Rookie group, at Cygnet LC on a Saturday afternoon, or Cobham Hall School on a Sunday evening. The sessions cost £20 per month, per swimmer and this gives access to all sessions. Check out the information sheet on the website under Joining Details.

Stages of the Programme

One of the key factors of the new programme is the clear pathway from Rookie to Lifeguard. Rookies can easily transition into the new programme, as can new candidates to lifesaving through the accessible and challenging Bronze Lifesaving Certificate.The National Lifesaving Academy provides the opportunity to test skills in a number of environments and ultimately progress through a pathway to be part of the next generation of pool, beach and open water lifeguards.

Lifesaving candidates may choose to master their skills in one environment, or they may choose to develop in all three environments. Progression through the awards includes developing life support in every award.

After achieving a medallion in a strand, lifesavers will have developed expert skills and abilities, and will be able to remove 7 hours of teaching from the respective lifeguard qualification – either NPLQ, NVBLQ or OWL.

Following the completion of a Medallion, candidates can choose to take the National Lifesaving Academy Distinction.