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Open Water Lifeguard

Course Overview:

Open water swimming is one of the fastest-growing sports in the UK. The OWL qualification has been specifically designed to equip open water lifeguards with the skills required to supervise and provide rescue cover for planned, organised and risk assessed activities in still or non-tidal water.

The Open Water Lifeguard (OWL) Qualification was developed by the Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK) to address the role of open water lifeguards and the needs of open water operators. As the open water industry continues to grow, the RLSS UK have endeavoured to respond to change through the ongoing development of this qualification. The OWL qualification can be used to supervise and provide rescue cover for planned, organised and risk assessed activities in still, non-tidal water.

The OWL Qualification requires a minimum of 18 hours (3 days) training and requires 100% attendance. In order to perform lifeguard duties candidates must be physically fit, have good vision and hearing, be mentally alert and self disciplined.

The course will be delivered using a variety of methods including:

• PowerPoint Presentations
• Flip Chart Exercises
• Guided Group Discussions
• Guided Group Activities
• Practical Demonstrations and Training

Course Prerequisites

Every candidate attending an OWL course must be 16-years-old at the time of taking the OWL final assessment and be able to:

• Be competent and confident in open water
• Be able to swim at least 400 metres in a pool/open water, swimming continuously on their front and showing urgency.
• Be able to submerge under the water confidently

The OWL certificate is valid for 2 years from the date of successful completion of the course.

You are required to bring the following items to the course:

• Photographic Identification (must be shown to the trainer on the first day of the course)
• A whistle
• Appropriate swim wear, including wet suit (can be provided)
• Towel(s)
• Bright coloured swim hat (can be purchased from the venue)
• Pen / pencil
• Suncream
• Refreshments, including water

Course Assessment:

The OWL course syllabus and practical skills are continually assessed by the course trainer and a suitable level competence must be achieved to be put forward for a final independent assessment. The assessment will include verbal question and answer sessions, practical demonstrations of water rescue skills, CPR and First Aid.

If you have any questions prior to the start of the course, please feel free to contact us.

Payment Terms

To secure your place, the full balance will be taken on booking and receipt of candidate application form.