Become a Qualified Pool Lifeguard with GJH Training Services
Looking to become a qualified pool lifeguard?
Our National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) course gives you the practical skills, knowledge and confidence you need to work as a pool lifeguard. The course also includes training of how to use a Pool Extraction Board (PXB) which will help you to gain local employment.
Delivered by GJH Training Services, the NPLQ is an excellent starting point for a career in the leisure industry and provides valuable lifesaving, first aid and emergency response skills.
NEXT COURSE 15th to 19th February 2027
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NPLQ Course at a Glance
| Qualification | RLSS UK National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ Gen 10) |
| Minimum age | 16 at the time of final assessment |
| Training | Minimum 36 hours |
| Attendance | 100% attendance required |
| Location | Leeds Grammar School |
| Course price | £315.00 |
| Maximum candidates | 12 |
| Assessment | Practical and theory assessments |
The NPLQ is the UK’s leading pool lifeguard qualification and is awarded by RLSS UK Qualifications. The current qualification is NPLQ Gen 10. Royal Life Saving Society UK ( RLSS UK )
What is the NPLQ?
The National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) is a professional qualification designed for people who want to work as pool lifeguards.
The qualification covers the essential skills required to supervise swimming pools, recognise and respond to emergencies, carry out rescues and provide first aid and CPR.
The current NPLQ Gen 10 qualification consists of three main areas:
Unit 1 – Swimming Pool Safety, Operation and Supervision
Learn how to maintain pool safety, identify hazards and effectively supervise a swimming pool environment.
Unit 2 – Pool Lifeguard Emergency Rescue Skills
Develop the practical skills required to respond to incidents and emergencies in and around the pool.
Unit 3 – First Aid, Illness and Injury Management
Learn how to respond appropriately to illness and injury, including essential first aid and CPR skills.
The NPLQ Gen 10 is the marketing name for the RLSS UK Qualifications Level 3 Award in Pool Lifeguarding. Royal Life Saving Society UK ( RLSS UK )
Who Can Take the NPLQ?
You don’t need previous lifeguarding experience to take the NPLQ.
However, the course is physically demanding and you must meet the required entry criteria.
You must be at least 16 years old at the time of your final assessment and be able to:
- Jump or dive into deep water.
- Swim 50 metres in less than 60 seconds.
- Swim 100 metres continuously on your front and back.
- Tread water for 30 seconds in deep water.
- Surface dive to the bottom of the pool.
- Climb out of the pool unaided, without using a ladder or steps, where the pool design permits.
These requirements are set by RLSS UK and candidates should make sure they can meet them before booking. Royal Life Saving Society UK ( RLSS UK )
How Long Does the NPLQ Course Take?
The NPLQ requires a minimum of 36 hours of training, with 100% attendance required.
The exact number of days and daily timetable can vary depending on how the course is organised by the training provider.
At GJH Training Services, we’ll provide you with the full course timetable before you attend so you know exactly what to expect.
What Will You Learn?
During your NPLQ training, you’ll develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to respond confidently to swimming-pool emergencies.
Your training will include:
- Pool safety and supervision.
- Use of the Pool Extraction Board (PXB).
- Lifeguarding responsibilities.
- Hazard identification and risk awareness.
- Emergency procedures.
- Pool rescue techniques.
- Casualty assessment.
- First aid.
- CPR.
- Emergency response.
- Lifesaving skills.
- Effective communication and teamwork.
The course combines classroom-based learning with practical pool training, so you’ll have the opportunity to put your knowledge into practice.
Is the NPLQ Difficult?
The NPLQ is a challenging qualification because being a lifeguard is a serious responsibility.
You will need to demonstrate both theoretical knowledge and practical ability, and the training involves swimming, diving, rescue techniques and responding to simulated emergencies.
However, you don’t need to be an elite swimmer.
If you meet the entry requirements, are physically prepared and engage fully with the training, we’ll support you throughout the course and help you prepare for your assessments.
Your NPLQ Assessment
To achieve the qualification, you must successfully complete the required assessments covering the NPLQ syllabus.
You’ll be assessed on areas including:
- Pool rescue skills.
- Lifeguarding knowledge.
- First aid.
- CPR.
- Emergency response procedures.
You must pass all required assessment elements to achieve the qualification. Royal Life Saving Society UK ( RLSS UK )
Why Choose GJH Training Services?
Choosing the right training provider matters.
At GJH Training Services, we aim to provide professional, practical training in a supportive environment where candidates can develop the confidence and skills they need.
Small Training Groups
We limit our courses to a maximum of 12 candidates, helping us provide a more personal training experience.
Practical, Hands-On Training
Lifeguarding is a practical skill. Our training gives you the opportunity to develop your rescue, first aid and emergency response skills rather than simply learning from a textbook.
Professional Training
Our aim is to prepare you for the responsibilities of working as a pool lifeguard, not simply to get you through an assessment.
Convenient Local Training
Leeds Grammar School, Harrogate Road, Leeds.
Free On-Site Parking
Friendly Learning Environment
Learning lifesaving skills can be challenging. We want candidates to feel comfortable asking questions, practising their skills and developing their confidence throughout the course.
What Can I Do With an NPLQ?
Once qualified, you can apply for pool lifeguarding positions with leisure centres, swimming pools, hotels, holiday parks and other aquatic facilities, subject to the requirements of the employer.
Lifeguarding can also be an excellent starting point for a wider career in the leisure industry.
Many people use their lifeguarding experience to progress into roles involving supervision, management, coaching and wider leisure operations.
The NPLQ can also provide valuable skills that extend beyond the workplace, including first aid, CPR, teamwork, communication and emergency response.
RLSS UK describes lifeguarding as an opportunity for career progression within the leisure industry and notes that the qualification is internationally recognised. RRoyal Life Saving Society UK ( RLSS UK )
How Much Does an NPLQ Course Cost?
Our NPLQ course costs £315.00 per candidate.
This includes:
- NPLQ training.
- Course assessment.
- Course manual.
- Training on the Pool Extraction Board (PXB)
Prices can vary between course providers, so please check exactly what is included before booking.
Upcoming NPLQ Courses
15th – 19th February 2027
Location: Leeds Grammar School
Course duration: 9am – 5pm each day
Price: £315.00
Places available: 12
Don’t See a Date That Works for You?
If there isn’t currently a course date that suits you, get in touch with GJH Training Services.
We can let you know about future courses and discuss your requirements.
[CONTACT GJH TRAINING SERVICES]
Frequently Asked Questions
How old do I have to be to take the NPLQ?
You must be at least 16 years old at the time of the NPLQ final assessment. Royal Life Saving Society UK ( RLSS UK )
Do I need previous lifeguarding experience?
No. The NPLQ is designed to train candidates in the knowledge and practical skills required to become a pool lifeguard.
You must, however, meet the required swimming and physical entry criteria.
How long is NPLQ training?
The NPLQ requires a minimum of 36 hours of training, with 100% attendance required. Royal Life Saving Society UK ( RLSS UK )
How long does the NPLQ qualification last?
The NPLQ is valid for two years. Royal Life Saving Society UK ( RLSS UK )
How do I renew my NPLQ?
If you are renewing an existing NPLQ within its validity period, RLSS UK requires a renewal assessment and 20 hours of CPD completed since your previous assessment. The CPD should cover areas including pool rescue skills, CPR, first aid and lifeguard theory. Royal Life Saving Society UK ( RLSS UK )+1
If your qualification has expired, different requirements may apply.
Is the NPLQ recognised?
Yes. The NPLQ is awarded by RLSS UK Qualifications and the current NPLQ Gen 10 is regulated through the relevant UK qualification frameworks. Royal Life Saving Society UK ( RLSS UK )
Is the NPLQ physically demanding?
Yes. The course involves swimming, diving, rescue techniques and practical emergency-response skills.
You should make sure you can meet the required swimming prerequisites before booking. Royal Life Saving Society UK ( RLSS UK )
Can I become a lifeguard at 16?
Yes. You can achieve the NPLQ from age 16, provided you meet the entry requirements and successfully complete the training and assessments. Employment requirements may vary between employers. Royal Life Saving Society UK ( RLSS UK )
Do I need GCSEs to become a lifeguard?
There are no specific GCSE requirements for taking the NPLQ. You must meet the age, swimming and physical requirements and successfully complete the course and assessments. Royal Life Saving Society UK ( RLSS UK )
Ready to Become a Qualified Pool Lifeguard?
If you’re 16 or over, meet the swimming requirements and are ready for a rewarding challenge, the NPLQ could be the perfect place to start.
Book your NPLQ course with GJH Training Services and start developing the skills you need to become a qualified pool lifeguard.
15th to 19th February 2027 at Leeds Grammar School
Or, if you have questions about the course, contact us before booking.
GJH Training Services
07852998963
info@gjhtrainingservices.co.uk
Important Qualification Information
The National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) is awarded by RLSS UK Qualifications.
The current NPLQ Gen 10 qualification is the RLSS UK Qualifications Level 3 Award in Pool Lifeguarding, qualification number 610/2603/7. It consists of three units covering swimming pool safety, emergency rescue skills, and first aid, illness and injury management in a pool environment. Royal Life Saving Society UK ( RLSS UK )
For the most up-to-date qualification requirements and information, candidates should refer to RLSS UK.
[LEARN MORE ABOUT THE NPLQ – RLSS UK]
