Spotlight job: Becoming a lifeguard

  • Published on 19/06/2024

Why is being a Lifeguard such an awesome job and how can you become one?

Imagine spending your days by the beach, or round your local lido, helping people stay safe while they enjoy the water. That’s exactly what being a lifeguard is all about. Whether you’re looking for a summer job or a stepping stone into a career in public safety, becoming a lifeguard can be a rewarding and exciting experience. Here’s why being a lifeguard is so awesome—and how you can land a job as one.

Why being a Lifeguard rocks

  1. You get to work outdoors Forget being stuck in an office all day. As a lifeguard, your “office” is the beach or the pool. And we have plenty of those in Devon! You could spend your days outdoors, enjoying the fresh air and sunshine, which is great for your mental and physical health. Plus, you get to be around the water all day, which is a huge perk if you love swimming and the beach lifestyle.
  2. You’re making a difference As a lifeguard, your main responsibility is keeping people safe. Whether it’s preventing accidents or stepping in during an emergency, you’re playing a crucial role in protecting lives. It’s a job that comes with a lot of responsibility, but also a lot of satisfaction knowing that you’re helping others.
  3. It’s a great way to stay fit Lifeguarding is a physically demanding job. You’ll need to be a strong swimmer, stay active, and be ready to spring into action at a moment’s notice. Plus, the regular exercise you get from training and patrolling can be a huge bonus for your overall well-being.
  4. You’ll build lifelong skills The skills you develop as a lifeguard go beyond just swimming. You’ll learn valuable life skills like leadership, communication, and quick decision-making. These skills are not only essential for lifeguarding but also transferable to many other jobs and careers. Plus, the training you receive in first aid and CPR is something that can benefit you and others throughout your life.
  5. It’s a social job Lifeguarding is a great way to meet people and work as part of a team. Whether you’re working with fellow lifeguards, interacting with swimmers, or helping kids learn to swim, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to engage with others. If you’re a social person, this job will definitely keep you connected with your local community.

How to land a job as a Lifeguard

  1. Get certified The first step to becoming a lifeguard is to get certified. In the UK, the National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) is the standard certification you’ll need if you want to work at a pool. For beach lifeguarding, the National Vocational Beach Lifeguard Qualification (NVBLQ) is required. These courses typically cover water rescue techniques, first aid, CPR, and how to use essential equipment. Most courses take about 36 hours to complete and include both practical and theoretical components.
  2. Be a strong swimmer You don’t need to be an Olympic swimmer, but you do need to be confident and competent in the water. Most lifeguard training courses have swimming assessments, so it’s important to brush up on your swimming skills. Practicing different strokes, improving your endurance, and getting comfortable swimming in open water are all good steps to take before starting your training.
  3. Stay fit and healthy Lifeguarding is a physically demanding job, so it’s important to maintain a good level of fitness. Regular exercise, especially swimming, will help you stay in shape and be prepared for the physical challenges of the job. Strength training, cardio, and flexibility exercises can also be beneficial.
  4. Apply for local jobs Once you’re certified, it’s time to start applying for jobs. Check here first, obvs. You can also check in with your local pools, leisure centres, and holiday parks. Many lifeguard jobs are seasonal, so it’s a good idea to start your job search early, especially if you’re looking for a summer position.
  5. Prepare for the interview If you land an interview, be ready to showcase your skills and knowledge. Employers will want to know that you’re not only physically capable but also responsible and able to handle stressful situations. Be sure to highlight any relevant experience, such as swimming competitions, volunteer work, or previous lifeguarding jobs. Demonstrating your passion for safety and helping others will go a long way.

Being a lifeguard isn’t just a job—it can be an adventure too.