About
Becoming a lifeguard is a fantastic way to gain a respected qualification, develop lifesaving skills, and open doors to flexible work across leisure centres, hotels, waterparks, and beaches. It builds confidence, leadership, and first aid expertise, while giving you the rewarding opportunity to protect lives and respond in emergencies. The RLSS Lifeguard Course is recognised internationally, making it ideal for travel and seasonal work.
📍 Courses Available
Lifeguard Course Dublin and nationwide across Ireland, combining classroom learning, pool-based rescue skills, CPR, AED training, and real-life scenario assessments. Training is suitable for those starting their career, students seeking part-time work, or anyone looking to add a valuable safety qualification to their CV.
Lifeguard Courses in Ireland
Dublin & Nationwide Ireland
How do I Become a Lifeguard (Pre-Requisites)
Every candidate attending a NPLQ course must be 16-years-old at the time of taking the NPLQ final assessment and be able to:
- Jump / dive into deep water.
- Swim 50 metres in less than 60 seconds.
- Swim 100 metres continuously on front and back in deep water.
- Tread water for 30 seconds.
- Surface dive to the floor of the pool.
- Climb out unaided without ladder/steps and where the pool design permits.
Course Content
The NPLQ covers all elements of Pool Rescue Techniques, Lifeguarding Theory, First Aid and CPR. The course is physically demanding and will include swimming to set times, lifting casualties and diving to the deepest part of the swimming pool. Training and assessment for the NPLQ is in three sections and all must be successfully passed to attain the qualification.
Section 1 – The Lifeguard and the Law, Swimming Pool Supervision
Element 1 – The Lifeguard and the Law
Element 2 – Swimming Pool, Hazards and Control Measures
Element 3 – Swimming Pool Supervision
Section 2 – Intervention and Rescue and Emergency Action Plans
Element 1 – Intervention and Rescue
Element 2 – Rescue of a Casualty with a Suspected Spinal Injury
Element 3 – Emergency Action Plan
Section 3 – Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, AED and First Aid
Element 1 – Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
Element 2 – First Aid
Element 3 – Automated External Defibrillation (AED)
Assesment
The assessment is split into three sections:
- Practical pool assessment.
- Theory Assessment for all 3 sections.
- Practical First Aid & CPR assessment.
In the event that you are marked not competent, there is 28 days to repeat that section. We will provide free additional training with the course trainer. The reassessment then has a 150 euro charge to hire out assessor and pool space but we take on half the charge so the cost is 75 euros.
Renewal
NPLQ renewal candidates may renew their qualification within the period of validity of their existing qualification as stated on their certificate. This will include a full assessment of lifeguard knowledge and skills by an independent assessor. Candidates must have access to the most up to date copy of ‘The Lifeguard’ manual prior to assessment.
The following is required to be completed by candidates prior to the renewal assessment of their qualification to demonstrate their ongoing professional competence:
20 hours Continued Professional Development within the last two years from the date of previous assessment covering content from the NPLQ syllabus:
- In-water swimming pool rescue skills (at least 4 hrs).
- CPR (at least 4 hrs).
- First Aid (at least 4 hrs).
- Lifeguard theory (at least 4 hours).
Continued Professional Development can be achieved by:
- Attendance at Lifeguard ongoing training and competency assessment* (strongly recommended)
- Attendance at alternative training, face-to-face or online, relating to In-water swimming pool rescue skills, CPR, First Aid and Lifeguard theory
Course Cost
The cost of the RLSS National Pool Lifeguard Qualification is 495 euros.
To enquire about the course cost and how to book, please email us at info@swim21training.com.
Delivery of our courses can be a combination of online / in person. We can bring a trainer to you and deliver our courses at your facility.
Are the qualifications recognised?
Yes. Courses are delivered in line with recognised industry standards and awarding bodies, so they are widely accepted across the leisure and aquatic sector.
Who are the courses suitable for?
They are suitable for beginners, students, leisure staff, teachers, coaches, and professionals who want to gain or renew recognised qualifications.
How do I book a lifeguard course?
You can book directly online by choosing your course and preferred date, or request advice if you need help selecting the right option.
Where are courses delivered?
Training takes place in Dublin and at venues nationwide across Ireland, with private onsite training also available for organisations.
Who delivers the training?
All training is delivered by experienced, fully qualified instructors who work professionally within the aquatic and safety training industry and have real hands-on experience.
Can training be delivered privately for a group?
Yes. Private courses can be arranged and delivered onsite for your team or organisation.
What is it like being a lifeguard? – RLSS Lifeguard Course
More Information on this Qualification
Check out the RLSS website by clicking on learn more.
