Interested in becoming a Beach Lifeguard?

Believe it or not, it's that time of year again where those working as beach lifeguards across the UK start gearing up ready for the summer season.

Lifeguard recruitment takes place early in the year and due to the recruitment process that means those new to lifeguarding and hoping to land 'Britain's best summer job' should also start preparing if they want to be in with a chance of gaining employment.

There are 3 key steps to getting yourself ready for a job on the beach;

Step 1:  Get fit

Lifeguarding is a physically demanding role and as such, much of the recruitment process is generally dominated by fitness tests.

To be in with a good chance of not only passing, but also impressing your potential future employer our Lifeguard Trainers recommend that participants swim regularly in their local pool, ensure they are comfortable operating in the sea and posses a good level of general fitness.

Below are the average fitness requirements for UK Lifeguards.  These standards may vary depending on the lifeguard operating service.

·         200m pool swim in under 3.5 minutes

·         400m pool swim in under 7.5 minutes

·         25m pool swim underwater and 25m surface swim consecutively in under 50 seconds.

·         200m beach run in under 40 seconds

 It should be noted that to pass the National Vocational Beach Lifeguard Qualification (NVBLQ) the set fitness requirements are

• 400m pool swim in under 8 minutes
• 200m beach run in under 40 seconds

Step 2: Get Qualified

Before you can apply for a job as a lifeguard you must first pass your National Vocational Beach Lifeguard Qualification (NVBLQ) - formally known as NARS.  This certifies you as meeting the standards set down by the International Lifesaving Federation to act as a lifeguard and is the prerequisite for most job vacancies.

Due to the opening of applications early in the year and the ever increasing popularity of the job, it is strongly recommended that candidates book onto courses early in the season to avoid disappointment.

To find out more about the NVBLQ qualifications Water Safety Europe offer please visit; www.watersafetyeurope.co.uk or contact us on info@watersafetyeurope.co.uk for available dates. 

Step 3: Apply

Once you have met the fitness standards and have gained your qualification it is now time to apply for the job.  Typically this can be done by visiting the company's website and following the links in the recruitment page.  Once you have sent your application, it's a case of sit back and wait to be invited to interview.