Pool Lifeguard Qualification

Lifeguard reaching out a float to a person in a swimming pool

What is the Pool Lifeguard Qualification?

This course is aimed at people who would like to become a pool lifeguard.

Glasgow Life tutors, accredited by STA, ensure train learners in pool side rescues, CPR techniques, first aid and dealing with poolside emergencies.

Enquire about a course here

More information on the Pool Lifeguard Qualification

You could be a keen swimmer or local swim school volunteer, or perhaps you work in a gym that has a swimming pool; many people who have a career within leisure begin as lifesavers, then move their way upwards through the industry developing their skills with further training.

If you’re a competent swimmer and are looking for a rewarding job, then look no further. You'll also receive an STA International Pool Lifeguard Certificate after completing the course.

Our next course delivery has the following dates:

Glasgow Club Scotstoun: Fri 27 - Mon 30 Sept & Sat 5 Oct (assessment 6 Oct)

  • You must be 16 years old at the time of the assessment.
  • Complete a pre-swim assessment and medical questionnaire in advance of the course.
  • Swim 100 metres on your front and 100 metres on your back competently (without stopping).
  • Surface dive down to the deepest part of the pool floor.
  • Jump/dive into deep water.
  • Swim 50 metres in less than 60 seconds.
  • Tread water for 30 seconds in deep water.
  • Climb out of the pool unaided without a ladder or steps.

You’ll sit a practical and theory assessment at the end of the course to show the skills and knowledge you have learned.

  • Perform CPR for an adult sudden collapse, drowning, child and infant casualty.
  • Administer first aid for a range of conditions and injuries. This includes choking, bleeding, burns, muscle and bone injuries, and other medical conditions.
  • Perform in-water rescue skills, including retrieval of a submersible manikin from the deepest part of the pool and team lift.
  • Perform first aid for an unconscious casualty, including the recovery position and aftercare.
  • Perform poolside rescue skills.
  • Respond to and manage an emergency situation.
  • Understand the role of a pool lifeguard.
  • Understand how to supervise the aquatic environment.
  • Understand how to use the equipment effectively.

The STA Pool Lifeguard course costs £250. The fee includes:

  • A copy of the STA manual, The Lifeguard.
  • Course materials.
  • Award certificate.
  • Administration fees.
  • Tuition and assessment fees.

For more information on the STA, click here.

If necessary, you can re-sit any of the sections after seven days of the initial assessment. You must complete all re-sits within 60 days. Failing to do so will result in a non-completion of the course, and you'll be required to complete a full course with payment.

There are 37 hours of delivery, combining classroom work and pool-based sessions. The pattern of these hours varies depending on the venue.

If necessary, you can re-sit any of the sections after seven days of the initial assessment. You must complete all re-sits within 60 days. Failing to do so will result in a non-completion of the course, and you'll be required to complete a full course with payment.

100% attendance required. Failure to attend any session will make you ineligible for the final assessment. At least seven days' notice must be given to cancel this course. Otherwise, you will not receive a refund.


Enquire about a Pool Lifeguard Qualification here

If you want to enquire or have any questions about the Pool Lifeguard Qualifications pleas get in touch.
Contact Us - Pool Lifeguard

Discover More

Find out more about our other services

  • Training Academy

    Find out more about training opportunities in Glasgow.

  • Training For Work

    Find out more about our employability programme for 16 - 24 year olds.

  • Adult Activities

    Find out more about activities for adults to get active in Glasgow.

    A person hitting a tennis ball on the courts at Kelvingrove Park