Birr Leisure Centre
How do I become a lifeguard?
-
Every candidate attending a NPLQ course must be 16-years-old or above at the time of taking the NPLQ final assessment and be able to:
Jump/dive into deep water
Swim 50 metres in less than 60 seconds
Swim 100 metres continuously on front and back in deep water
Tread water for 30 seconds
Surface dive to the floor of the pool
Climb out unaided without ladder/steps and where the pool design permits
-
The NPLQ covers all elements of Pool Rescue Techniques, Lifeguarding Theory, First Aid and CPR. The course is physically demanding and will include swimming to set times, lifting casualties and diving to the deepest part of the swimming pool. Training and assessment for the NPLQ are in three sections, and candidates must successfully pass all to attain the qualification.
Section 1 – The Lifeguard and the Law, Swimming Pool Supervision
Element 1 – The Lifeguard and the Law
Element 2 – Swimming Pool, Hazards and Control Measures
Element 3 – Swimming Pool Supervision
Section 2 – Intervention and Rescue and Emergency Action Plans
Element 1 – Intervention and Rescue
Element 2 – Rescue of a Casualty with a Suspected Spinal Injury
Element 3 – Emergency Action Plan
Section 3 – Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, AED and First Aid
Element 1 – Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
Element 2 – First Aid
Element 3 – Automated External Defibrillation (AED)
-
Assessment for the NPLQ takes place at the end of the course. It determines your knowledge and understanding of the principles of working as a pool lifeguard and assesses your ability to apply the skills and knowledge in a work-related environment.
The assessment is split into three sections:
Practical pool assessment
Theory Assessment for all three sections
Practical First Aid & CPR assessment
-
An excellent starting point for a career in the leisure industry
Opportunity for career progression as most leisure managers start as Pool Lifeguards
Varied working hours
Work within a team
The NPLQ is recognised around the world, so potential to work and travel
A great way for students to fund studies
Learn essential life skills, including First Aid and CPR
-
Your NPLQ Cert last for 2 years. Afterward you need to do an renewal assessment.
NPLQ renewal candidates may renew their qualification within the period of validity of their existing qualification as stated on their certificate. This will include a full assessment of lifeguard knowledge and skills by an independent assessor. Candidates must have access to the most up to date copy of ‘The Lifeguard’ manual prior to assessment.
The following is required to be completed by candidates prior to the renewal assessment of their qualification to demonstrate their ongoing professional competence:
20 hours Continued Professional Development within the last two years from the date of previous assessment covering content from the NPLQ syllabus:
In-water swimming pool rescue skills (at least 4 hrs)
CPR (at least 4 hrs)
First Aid (at least 4 hrs)
Lifeguard theory (at least 4 hours)
Continued Professional Development can be achieved by:
Attendance at Lifeguard ongoing training and competency assessment* (strongly recommended)
Attendance at alternative training, face-to-face or online, relating to In-water swimming pool rescue skills, CPR, First Aid and Lifeguard theory
Rookie Lifeguard
Join us at Birr Leisure Centre for our exciting Rookie Lifeguard program designed to teach essential water safety and rescue skills to young swimmers. Our experienced instructors will guide participants through various scenarios to ensure they are well-equipped to handle emergencies in and around the water.
Participants will learn essential first aid, CPR techniques, water rescue skills, and general water safety knowledge in a fun and supportive environment. This program is perfect for young individuals looking to develop valuable skills while having a great time in the water.
Sign up for the Rookie Lifeguard program at Birr Leisure Centre and help your child become a confident and capable future lifeguard. Contact us for more information on schedules and enrollment.
-
Children's Group Lessons
Our swimming lessons teach children new life skills and independence whilst having fun in the water. Find out more about our children's swimming lessons below, or if you would like to book, get in touch!
-
Pool Area
Our 25m heated pool is ideal for a leisurely swim or to get in some laps. We offer a stunning Steam Room, Sauna and Spa for anyone over 16yrs to destress and relax your body after a long day.
We offer Swim Lessons for all ages along with aqua aerobics
-
Gym
Use our facilities to increase your strength, cardio and overall ability. You can focus on strengthening any aspect of your body through specific and focused training sessions.
Come along to our centre and ask one of our friendly team for a personalised programme to help your fitness to progress in the way you want it to.
-
CryoSpa
The CryoSpa Sport offers optimum ice bath therapy and has proven to be an integral part of the recovery strategy for many professional sports clubs, stadiums and elite sports facilities, accelerating athlete recovery, minimising fatigue and lowering the risk of injury.
-
HQ Physio
Nicholas Lalor is a member of the Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapist and the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy UK. He is available on-site by appointment only. He can be contacted on 087-917 0080