National Pool Lifeguard Qualification

National Pool Lifeguard The industry recognised course for anyone who wants to become a qualified lifeguard. This course teaches essential lifesaving skills, CPR, and emergency response, giving you the confidence and certification to work poolside.

Enrol today

Ready to become a qualified lifeguard? Enrol today to reserve your place on our next NPLQ course

Candidates must be able to:

To keep everyone safe, all candidates need to meet the following practical swim requirements before taking part in the course.

Dive 

Jump / dive into deep water

Swim

Swim 50 metres (2 lengths) in 60 seconds

100 metres

Swim 100 metres continuously on front and back in deep water

Tread water

Tread water for 30 seconds

Surface dive

Surface dive to the floor of the pool

Unaided

Climb out unaided without ladder / steps

Learn Skills for Life

Horizon’s National Pool Lifeguard Course qualified to work in any UK swimming pool as a Lifeguard during this one-week intensive course taking place at Horizon Havant (just outside of Portsmouth).

This is an ideal way to gain an essential qualification at a low cost for working in the leisure industry as well as learning practical skills that could save someone’s life.

Next course

Ready to start your journey as a lifeguard? Contact Horizon Havant to find out more about the National Pool Lifeguard Course and how to enrol. Take the first step towards a fulfilling and exciting career with Horizon!

Course Date:
TBD
Cost:
£280.00

National Pool Lifeguard Course 
at Horizon Leisure Centres

Ready to take the plunge into a rewarding career? The National Pool Lifeguard Course (NPLQ) at Horizon Havant is your gateway to becoming a certified lifeguard. This comprehensive course equips you with the essential skills and knowledge needed to ensure the safety of swimmers and respond effectively in emergencies.

Learn how to supervise a pool safely, recognise risks early, and make quick decisions to keep swimmers safe. You’ll understand key safety procedures, scanning techniques, and how to stay alert throughout a shift.

Practise rescues in the water, including approaches, tows, and safe recovery methods. You’ll also develop the skills needed to support swimmers in difficulty, using the correct techniques and equipment.

Be ready to act when every second matters. You’ll train for real life scenarios and learn how to respond confidently, including CPR, basic first aid, and team communication in emergencies.

This course is about doing, not just learning. You’ll take part in realistic pool based scenarios, build stamina and technique, and receive support from trainers throughout your journey to qualification.

Why Choose Horizon for Your 
Lifeguard Training?

Expert Instructors

Learn from qualified trainers who guide you through every part of the course and help you feel confident from day one.

Modern Facilities

Train in Horizon’s pool environments so you can practise in real conditions and build workplace ready skills.

Recognised Certification

The NPLQ qualification is widely recognised and respected, opening doors to lifeguarding opportunities across the UK and beyond.

Course Details and Enrollment

The NPLQ course at Horizon Leisure Centres is open to anyone aged 16 and over who meets the fitness and swimming prerequisites. You’ll receive a nationally recognised qualification upon successful completion, enabling you to pursue lifeguarding roles in various settings.

Become a Qualified Lifeguard

Lifeguards benefit from varied working hours, which can easily fit around other commitments, the experience of working within a team, and the opportunity to progress within the Leisure industry.

The National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) course is only £280 per candidate, including tuition, First Aid and AED training, handbook and exam fee.

Interested in Becoming a Lifeguard? Apply to become a Lifeguard at Horizon and we can help you to get the qualification whilst you earn.