What we would say is please do your homework before getting on a plane. In certain countries around the world, their own federations or associations may require you to meet their own criteria such as language and surfing tests. Do your research!
Lifesaving and surf instructor combined is 6 days, SUP water rescue and sup foundation instructor combined is 4 days
Good question! This course is designed to give you the foundation knowledge and experience you need to enter the industry. We build the skeleton together then you go off and put the meat on the bones.
To attend this course you must be at intermediate level and be able to demonstrate the manoeuvres stated on our website course descriptors.
Yes we always make sure candidates have an opportunity to demonstrate their practical skills while on the course.
The assessment process is on-going throughout the course. We will be looking at how you deliver a lesson on dry land and in the water. We require you to demonstrate everything perfectly that you will teach to your students. There is a final day for formal assessment on all of our coaching courses
Yes if we have received all of your payments and you pass the assessment criteria.
If your surfing/sup skills or coaching ability does not meet the required standard, then you have a twelve-month window to get your skill level to where it needs to be. You will then be required to submit photos and possibly video evidence to show us that you have reached the standard.
We have a variety of different training venues, you will be given full details when you enrol on the course.
In some venues you will need your own vehicle or have someone to drop you off and pick you up. People on the course normally end up car sharing once everyone has got to know each other on day one. Please do not worry if this is a major problem for you. We realise some of you travel from overseas and have used public transport to get to us. If this is a problem, then please notify us prior to the course starting.
Tea and coffee is provided. Some venues may provide lunch. Please contact your course trainer for further details.
Candidates must 16 years or older.
This qualification is valid for as long as you have a valid lifesaving qualification such as the SLSGB Surf Lifeguard or Surf Coach Safety and Rescue award.
We don’t offer accommodation but can recommend a few options in the local area. Contact your trainer for further information.
The SLSGB Beach Lifeguard (or NARS as it used to be known) has now been renamed “Surf Lifeguard”. The SLSGB Surf Lifeguard is the highest obtainable award for those wishing to work as a Beach Lifeguard here in the United Kingdom. What separates this qualification from others is the time required for the 400m pool swim, the use of oxygen and rescue board. This award is specifically surf endorsed.
You must be physically fit and able to swim 400 metres in under 7 minutes 30 seconds, (the first 200m in under 3 mins 30 secs) as well as run 200m on the beach in under 40 seconds. Please make sure you can achieve these times prior to attending the course.
You must be physically fit and able to swim 200m in the surf as well as run 200m on the beach in under 60 seconds.
People who want to work as beach lifeguards, surf instructors, outdoor activity instructors or who want to embark on careers in rescue and emergency care. If you have this qualification, you have more options.
People who want to work as surf instructors, outdoor activity instructors or embark on careers in rescue and emergency care.
The surf lifeguard course runs over 5 days and the assessment will take place on the final day. You will be assessed by external examiners from SLSGB. This is not a pay-to-pass course. If you don’t meet the required standard set out by SLSGB, you won’t be signed off as competent and you will need to re-take the exam at a later date.
The surf coach safety and rescue award runs over 3 days and the assessment is on the final day.
Candidates will have to demonstrate their knowledge and capabilities in the following core competencies; Lifeguarding theory, CPR, First Aid, spinal management and open water skills including board rescues. Surf Coach Safety and Rescue candidates will not have to demonstrate a tube rescue but lifeguards will.
Previous experience is desirable but not essential as all training will be provided during the course. Having basic board skills and a knowledge of the beach and ocean environments will help.
Candidates must be age 16 on the day of the exam.
24 months from the date of assessment.
The surf lifeguard qualification allows you to work as a lifeguard on beaches in Britain and is valid in many countries worldwide. It is also a stepping-stone onto other courses and careers in rescue and emergency management. The Surf Coach Safety and Rescue award is specifically designed for those working or looking to work in the surf school industry. Some outdoor activity centres accept this award but please check prior to attending the course.