The LICQual Level 3 Award in National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) is a highly respected and internationally recognized certification designed for individuals who wish to become qualified pool lifeguards. This comprehensive training program equips learners with the essential lifesaving skills, water rescue techniques, and first aid knowledge required to ensure the safety of swimmers and pool users in a variety of aquatic environments.
Whether you are pursuing a professional career in leisure management, swimming pool supervision, or seasonal lifeguarding, this qualification provides you with the practical expertise and theoretical understanding needed to act swiftly and effectively in emergency situations. The course meets the highest safety and operational standards, making it a valuable credential for both local and international employment opportunities.
The LICQual Level 3 Award in NPLQ offers a balanced combination of classroom-based learning and practical poolside training. Participants will gain in-depth knowledge of pool safety operations, risk assessment, casualty management, CPR, and first aid procedures. You will learn how to identify hazards, prevent incidents, and carry out safe and effective rescues, ensuring the wellbeing of all pool users.
Throughout the course, learners will work closely with experienced instructors and participate in realistic rescue scenarios, enabling them to build confidence and competence in handling both minor and life-threatening emergencies. The program is aligned with international standards, ensuring that your certification is recognized by employers worldwide.
Upon successful completion, candidates will not only be prepared for lifeguard roles in swimming pools and leisure centers but will also possess transferable skills in health and safety, teamwork, and communication. This makes the NPLQ a stepping stone to further qualifications in the aquatic, fitness, and leisure industry.
Course Overview
Qualification Title
LICQual Level 3 Award in National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ)
Total Units
6
Total Credits
6
GLH
12
Qualification #
LICQ2200593
Qualification Specification
To enroll in the LICQual Level 3 Award in National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) applicants must meet the following criteria:
|
Qualification# |
Unit Title |
Credits |
GLH |
|---|---|---|---|
|
LICQ2200593-1 |
Principles of Pool Lifeguarding |
1 |
6 |
|
LICQ2200593-2 |
Pool Safety Operations & Risk Management |
1 |
6 |
|
LICQ2200593-3 |
Water Rescue Techniques |
1 |
6 |
|
LICQ2200593-4 |
First Aid and CPR for Aquatic Environments |
1 |
6 |
|
LICQ2200593-5 |
Emergency Response & Incident Management |
1 |
6 |
|
LICQ2200593-6 |
Communication & Teamwork in Lifeguarding |
1 |
6 |
By the end of this course, learners will be able to:
1. Principles of Pool Lifeguarding
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Explain the roles, responsibilities, and professional conduct expected of a qualified pool lifeguard.
- Describe the legal and ethical considerations in lifeguarding, including duty of care.
- Identify the importance of maintaining physical fitness and readiness for lifeguard duties.
2. Pool Safety Operations & Risk Management
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Conduct hazard identification and risk assessments in a pool environment.
- Explain the procedures for maintaining a safe swimming environment.
- Apply preventative measures to reduce accidents and incidents in aquatic facilities.
3. Water Rescue Techniques
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Demonstrate non-contact and contact rescue methods effectively.
- Perform safe and efficient casualty towing techniques.
- Apply correct entry, approach, and recovery methods in water rescues.
4. First Aid and CPR for Aquatic Environments
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Provide first aid treatment for common poolside injuries and medical emergencies.
- Demonstrate correct CPR techniques for adults, children, and infants.
- Manage unconscious casualties and apply safe recovery positions.
5. Emergency Response & Incident Management
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Respond effectively to both minor and major aquatic emergencies.
- Implement emergency action plans and evacuation procedures.
- Complete accurate incident reports and post-incident evaluations.
6. Communication & Teamwork in Lifeguarding
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Communicate effectively with colleagues, pool users, and emergency services.
- Work collaboratively as part of a lifeguard team in high-pressure situations.
- Demonstrate leadership and decision-making skills during lifeguard operations.
The LICQual Level 3 Award in National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) is designed for individuals seeking professional skills in pool safety, water rescue, and lifeguarding. This internationally recognized award is perfect for learners aiming to start or advance a career in aquatic safety and supervision.
1. Aspiring Lifeguards
- Gain foundational and advanced knowledge in pool safety and rescue techniques.
- Learn how to respond confidently to emergencies and incidents.
- Understand health and safety standards in aquatic environments.
- Develop practical lifeguarding skills through hands-on training.
- Prepare for a professional career in swimming pools and leisure centers.
2. Early Career Professionals
- Upgrade existing skills to achieve Level 3 professional competency.
- Learn advanced water rescue and emergency response procedures.
- Gain a globally recognized NPLQ certification.
- Improve employability in leisure centers, resorts, and aquatic facilities.
- Demonstrate commitment to safety, professionalism, and career growth.
3. Career Changers
- Transition into lifeguarding or aquatic safety roles.
- Acquire a Level 3 National Pool Lifeguard Qualification recognized internationally.
- Learn practical and theoretical skills applicable across various aquatic settings.
- Study with flexible training schedules suitable for working professionals.
- Build a foundation for further certifications in first aid and aquatic safety.
4. Aquatic Facility Supervisors & Managers
- Enhance skills to supervise pools and manage aquatic environments safely.
- Understand risk assessment and incident management in pool settings.
- Learn to implement health, safety, and compliance procedures.
- Strengthen leadership and operational capabilities.
- Gain a credential that demonstrates professional credibility in pool management.
5. Lifelong Learners & Safety Enthusiasts
- Explore water safety, rescue techniques, and emergency preparedness.
- Develop hands-on skills in pool lifeguarding.
- Gain confidence in proactive supervision and incident response.
- Build knowledge that supports continuous professional development.
- Prepare for advanced certifications in lifeguarding and aquatic safety.
6. International Learners & Remote Professionals
- Access the Level 3 NPLQ Award online and in-person training.
- Learn from anywhere with flexible, structured modules.
- Gain a qualification recognized in swimming pools and leisure centers worldwide.
- Progress to higher-level certifications in aquatic safety and lifeguarding.
- Boost global career opportunities in the pool and aquatic industry.
7. Students & Sport Enthusiasts
- Gain skills to safely supervise recreational swimming and sporting activities.
- Learn water rescue and emergency response techniques.
- Understand safety protocols in various pool settings.
- Build a credential that enhances employability in sports and aquatic facilities.
- Prepare for a rewarding career in the leisure and sports sector.
Assessment and Verification
All units within this qualification are subject to internal assessment by the approved centre and external verification by LICQual. The qualification follows a criterion-referenced assessment approach, ensuring that learners meet all specified learning outcomes.
To achieve a ‘Pass’ in any unit, learners must provide valid, sufficient, and authentic evidence demonstrating their attainment of all learning outcomes and compliance with the prescribed assessment criteria. The Assessor is responsible for evaluating the evidence and determining whether the learner has successfully met the required standards.
Assessors must maintain a clear and comprehensive audit trail, documenting the basis for their assessment decisions to ensure transparency, consistency, and compliance with quality assurance requirements.
