NPLQ

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

The National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) is the standard qualification needed to become a lifeguard in the United Kingdom and Ireland . The NPLQ qualifications and courses are controlled by IQL UK Ltd, which is the Institute of Qualified Lifeguards. This is a subsidiary of the Royal Lifesaving Society.

The courses usually comprise an intensive 1-week period of physical training and theoretical classroom work, followed by a practical in-water and out-of-water assessment on pool rescue, first aid, CPR and lifeguarding concepts. On average, the course can be fairly expensive, costing as much as £250. The qualification is internationally recognised and can be especially useful for students wishing to travel abroad to continue lifeguarding. The qualification lasts for 2 years from the date of issue and a further 20 hours of training must be completed before a lifeguard applies for renewal.

In Ireland many awards are done through IQL Ireland (Institute of Qualified Lifeguards Ireland). This is a private business and TA using this service pay a levy on their awards above the IQL UK rate.