The Graduate Lifeguard Programme is a 3 year programme for 13 – 16 year olds. It teaches and embeds not only lifeguard skills and techniques but important skills and attitudes that support future opportunities both in education and employment.

We believe that personal development is a key element and units encourage the graduates to reflect on their own strengths and areas for further development.

Why enrol on the Graduate Lifeguard Programme?

The Graduate Lifeguard Programme provides the foundation for youngsters to move on to the Beach Lifesaver award whilst embedding a wide range of important skills and attitudes that will support both further education and employment opportunities:

Self-management

All graduates with be required to demonstrate the ability to monitor their skill development, reflect and set challenging, realistic and achievable targets.

Problem solving

through scenario based training graduates will have to assess situations and come up with decisive plans and act accordingly, helping to develop problem solving and leadership skills as well as confidence.

Team working

through community presentations, rescues, patrolling the graduates will learn to appreciate and consider other people’s strengths and demonstrate an ability to listen to and follow instructions correctly.

Communication

during the programme both verbal and non-verbal communication methods will be developed with internal and external organisations as well as presentations to peer groups within their communities.

Positive approach to work

the programme requires dedication and commitment to help others and graduates will be expected to give up some of their spare time to help run Surf Life Saving activities within their club.

“I have no doubt that someone who has participated and been successful in the Graduate Lifeguard Programme will be more employable and will find more opportunities becoming available to them” – Lichfield District Channel

How is the programme broken down?

The programme is broken down in to 14 units listed below. During each of the 3 years a focus is put on a different patrol level.

Personal Fitness Beach Environment Young Lifeguard Leader
Communication and Surveillance Rescue Board Paddler Tube Rescuer
First Aid Working Practices Aquatic First Aid
Beach Patrol Radio Operator Advanced Lifeguard Skill
Emergency Evacuations Environmental Responsibilities

 

Throughout the programme individual graduate log books are used to track the completion of units. Once the club Trainer/Assessor has declared all aspects of the unit have been successfully completed and that the performance competency levels required have been achieved, access to the online learning platform is gained so that the next stage of assessments can be completed.

“The GLP forms the core of Sidmouth SLSC’s educational programme. The approach is instrumental in maintaining individual interest in club membership and providing lifesaving ambassadors in the community. In two years 38 out of the original 40 have continued on the programme” – David Manley, Sidmouth SLSC 

Find out more and sign up today

To find out more about the Graduate Lifeguard Programme and how your club or child can get involved contact SLSGB via email mail@slsgb.org.uk