Pool Vocational Qualifications

Monkton School swimming pool.

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Pool Vocational COURSES

At Monkton Leisure, we run a number of vocational courses in the pool, including Lifeguarding and Swim Teacher qualifications.

 

Lifeguarding Qualifications

The RLSS National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) is recognised universally as the Industry Standard for jobs in the Leisure Industry. On the successful completion of this course an individual can apply for Lifeguarding jobs in the UK and Ireland.

The NPLQ training will take place over five days followed by an Assessment on the final day. The course has a mixture of practical sessions as well as theoretical elements.

Are you assertive, eagle eyed, 16 or over, and a people person? 
Can you swim 100m on your front and back, 50m in 60s, surface dive, and climb out without steps?

If so, this may be the opportunity you have been waiting for!

 

Email or call for Bookings and/or Queries:
Email: larbalestierm@monkton.org.uk
Tel: 01225 721206

Pre-requisites to attaining your RLSS Lifeguard Qualification:

  • Must be 16 years of age prior to the Assessment date.
  • Be able to jump or dive into deep water.
  • Swim 50 metres in less than 1 minute
  • Surface dive into the deepest part of the pool
  • Swim 200 metres continuously, 100 metres on your front then 100 metres on your back.
  • Tread water for 30 seconds
  • Climb out of the pool unaided. 

The course covers the following content:

  • Practical rescue skills, and pool supervision.
  • Provides you with an understanding of water safety and pool emergency procedures.
  • The principles of pool Normal Operating Procedures and Emergency Action Plans.
  • The Lifeguard and the Law.
  • Practical and Theoretical CPR.
  • First Aid Skills. 

You will need to bring these items along with you:

  • Swimsuit, t-shirt and shorts (to be worn in the water), and a towel.
  • Poolside clothing for dry side training.
  • Notepad and pens.
  • Your lunch and refreshments.

 

STA Swimming Teacher 


STA Swimming Teacher Qualification - Next course dates 27th - 31st July 2026 

The STA Level 2 Swimming Teacher qualification is the perfect way to start your career as a swimming teacher. This new qualification replaces STA’s previous courses and combines everything into one simple, complete programme. No previous experience is required, so you can get started straight away.

Created by aquatic experts at STA and developed in line with the latest standards from CIMSPA, this course provides high-quality, up-to-date training.

Regulated and recognised across the aquatic sector and internationally, this qualification allows you to teach swimming anywhere in the world.

You will develop the practical skills and technical knowledge needed to confidently teach independently, including:

  • All four key swimming strokes and stroke development
  • Essential swimming skills and water confidence
  • Water safety, survival and rescue techniques
  • Planning, delivering and evaluating lessons

  • Teaching a range of ages and abilities, from beginners to more advanced swimmer

     

Course Structure

This course is delivered through a mix of:

  • Flexible online and in person learning

  • Classroom-based theory

  • Practical poolside sessions

You will complete:

  • A multiple-choice exam
  • Portfolio work throughout the course

  • There is a strong focus on hands-on poolside experience, helping you build real confidence as a teacher.

     

What You’ll Gain
  • On successful completion, you will receive:
  • A Level 2 qualification in Teaching Swimming
  • 12 months membership with STA (including insurance)
  • A package of continued professional development (CPDs)
  • Access to teaching resources, webinars and ongoing support

This ensures you are fully prepared to begin your teaching career safely and professionally.

 

Who Is This Course For?

Are you a patient, enthusiastic and supportive individual with a passion for swimming?

This course is ideal if you:

  • Want to start a career in swimming teaching
  • Work in leisure and want to progress into teaching
  • Enjoy helping others build confidence in the water

If this sounds like you, this is a great opportunity to turn your passion into a rewarding career teaching people of all ages to enjoy swimming safely.

For more information and to book email osullivanc@monkton.org.uk