Student lifeguards gain vital skills

Eleven RGS students have passed the most widely recognised pool lifeguard qualification in the UK and Ireland in addition to qualifications in first aid, life support, anaphylaxis management and defibrillator training

ELEVEN sixth form student lifeguards have earned a valuable set of coveted qualifications outside their A-level studies.

The students, who used the school swimming pool for their training, were praised by external examiners for the high standard of skills they displayed in lifesaving, first aid, health and safety, and customer service.

“The students have worked very conscientiously to learn, practise and demonstrate their skills,” said tutor Myles Strudwick, who has been involved in lifeguarding and lifesaving for 20 years, both nationally and internationally.

Edward Cassell, Deryn Crawley, Saffron Dunk, Ethan Kendrick, Lily-Rose Key, Iris Moulton, Sophie Reid, Evie Stoker, Zara Stoker, Isobella Watson-Emmanuel, and Beatrice Webster achieved four nationally recognised qualifications: the national pool lifeguard qualification (NPLQ), first aid at work, basic life support and anaphylaxis management, and automated external defibrillation.

“The external assessors who attended for the final examination commented on the high standard of the students’ skills. This is something each member of the group should be proud of,” added Myles.

“The skills learned can be applied in any workplace, making them prime candidates for any employer.”

Students used their Wednesday afternoon enrichment period - when sixth formers take a break from studies to explore other activities – to gain their qualification, which involves lessons for two hours a week with additional home study.

The course involved practical lessons, giving hands-on experience in lifeguarding and simulated emergency situations, alongside first aid training and practice, in addition to engaging with theory in lessons. This year, weekly revision quizzes and online practices were also available for the first time.

Two of the qualifications – the NPLQ and first aid at work – also carry eight UCAS points each, giving the students additional recognition for their efforts.

The NPLQ is a requirement for most lifeguarding jobs, and employers are required by law to employ first aiders, usually with a qualification of first aid at work.