REGULATORS:
Ofqual
Qualification Number: 610/6202/9
Title: STA Level 3 Award for Pool Lifeguards

SQA
Qualification Number: R917 04
Title: STA Award for Pool Lifeguards at SCQF Level 7

PRE REQUISITES:

• Be 16 years, or older, at the point of assessment
• Be able to perform practical demonstrations on the floor
• Be able to jump and dive into deep water
• Be able to swim 50 metres in under 1 minute
• Be able to swim 100 metres on the front and 100 metres on the back without stopping
• Be able to tread water for 30 seconds in deep water
• Be able to surface dive and recover an object from the deepest part of the pool
• Be able to climb out of the pool unaided without the use of steps or ladders.

VALIDITY OF AWARD:
This qualification is valid for 3 years.

LENGTH OF COURSE:
37 recommended guided learning hours

COURSE CONTENT:
This qualification covers:

• Understand the legislation, guidance and organisational policies and procedures relevant to a pool lifeguard
• Understand the principles and practices of risk management in swimming pools
• Understand Pool Safety Operating Procedures (PSOP)
• Understand safe systems of work
• Understand how to maximise the customer experience in a swimming pool environment
• Adult and Paediatric Emergency First Aid in the Workplace
• Recognition and Management of Adult and Paediatric Illness and Injury in the Workplace
• Understand the role and responsibilities of a pool lifeguard
• Understand how to supervise swimming pools
• Demonstrate pool lifeguard technical skills

ADDITIONAL UNITS
This qualification can be registered with the following additional units:

• Backboard Application: Be able to safely manage a casualty with a suspected spinal cord injury using a backboard

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:

• Complete a portfolio and revision sheet questions to the satisfaction of the course tutor
• Demonstrate the ability to carry out rescue activities in a safe, effective and prompt manner
• Demonstrate CPR & Safe use of an AED on a sudden collapse/Drowning or suspected spinal injury adult, baby and child casualty in a safe, prompt and effective manner
• Demonstrate the management of an unconscious casualty, including primary survey and recovery position, in a safe, prompt and effective manner
• Complete a 40 question multiple-choice paper with a unit pass mark of 10/13, 1/2, 3/5, 12/17, 2/3.