Safety is not just a priority; it is essential in the aquatic leisure industry. Your commitment to water safety by offering Rookie lifeguard sessions, is key to making your leisure centre or swimming pool a safer and more enjoyable environment for everyone. The Rookie Lifeguard programme allows children aged 8-12 to earn lifesaving awards in a fun and exciting environment. This course teaches students self-rescue, survival, rescue, and lifesaving skills. Testimonials and success stories provided by existing Rookie Lifeguards demonstrate that the training has a significant impact on the participants. In this blog, we will explore the benefits of adding the Rookie lifeguard programme to your leisure centre’s or swimming pool’s timetable.

Reason 1: Enhances Water Safety 

Offering the Rookie Lifeguard programme is not only a tick in the box, but you also provide young visitors with the opportunity to gain lifesaving skills to stay safe in and around the pool. It is not just a responsibility; it is an opportunity for your centre to reduce the chances of accidents and incidents occurring in the pool.

Reason 2: Attracts Families and Builds Customer Loyalty 

The Rookie Lifeguard programme appeals to families and parents who prioritise their children's safety. By offering this comprehensive water safety education and training opportunity,  leisure operators attract families looking for facilities that go the extra mile to ensure their children's well-being. Implementing the Rookie Lifeguard programme attracts new customers and fosters customer loyalty, as families appreciate the centre's commitment to their children's safety. 

Reason 3: Differentiates Leisure Centres from Competitors

The RLSS UK Rookie Lifeguard programme provides leisure centres or swimming pools with a unique selling point. Offering this training initiative differentiates the centre from competitors who may not provide similar water safety education opportunities. By emphasising their commitment to water safety, leisure facilities can stand out in the market and appeal to safety-conscious customers. 

Reason 4: Empower staff and Lifeguards 

Implementing the Rookie Lifeguard programme not only benefits young participants but also empowers staff and lifeguards. Staff members trained as Rookie Lifeguard instructors gain expertise in teaching water safety and lifesaving skills.  Staff don’t have to have a swimming teacher qualification to teach Rookie and so it offers a great opportunity to other staff, especially lifeguards. This professional development enhances their abilities as educators and mentors, fostering a culture of safety and vigilance within the centre. 

Reason 5: Supports Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Initiatives 

Running the Rookie Lifeguard programme can fulfil some objectives of an organisation's corporate social responsibility (CSR). By investing in water safety education, centres or pools demonstrate their commitment to community welfare. This commitment is a tangible way for the centre to contribute positively to society, showing that they take their responsibility as a provider of recreational services seriously. 

Reason 6: Positive Public Relations and Marketing Opportunities 

Implementing the Rookie Lifeguard programme can generate positive publicity and media coverage for leisure centres or swimming pools. Promoting this initiative through various channels, such as social media and local press, centres or pools can enhance their public image and brand reputation. The community will recognise and appreciate the dedication to water safety education and drowning prevention. 

What’s Next?

In addition to the Rookie Lifeguard programme, the RLSS UK offers the National Lifesaving Academy (NLA), bridging the gap between Rookie Lifeguard and becoming a professional lifeguard. The NLA offers a comprehensive curriculum that focuses on developing advanced lifesaving skills, knowledge, and competencies. Participants receive specialised training in areas such as rescue techniques, first aid, CPR, and water safety management which allow them to enhance their skills, stay updated on the latest techniques and best practices, and pursue further certifications. This training equips individuals with the necessary skills to respond effectively in emergency situations and ensures they meet the high standards expected of professional lifeguards. 

The NLA can greatly assist leisure centres and swimming pools in their lifeguard recruitment efforts. By partnering with the academy, leisure centres gain access to a pool of motivated and well-trained individuals who have completed the intermediate stage of lifeguard training. These candidates have demonstrated their commitment to water safety and have acquired the foundational skills required for lifeguarding positions. You can find out more about the NLA programme by clicking here

The RLSS UK Rookie Lifeguard programme and NLA are both valuable and comprehensive water safety training initiatives. By implementing these programme, leisure centres or pools enhance water safety, attract families, differentiate themselves from competitors, empower staff, and support their corporate social responsibility initiatives. They are a crucial investment in young participants' safety and a strategic step towards building a strong and reputable leisure centre. 

Click here for more information about offering the Rookie Lifeguard programme at your Leisure Centre or Swimming Pool 

Click here for essential products to support delivering Rookie Lifeguard 

There is also a range of merchandise that means your Rookie Lifeguards can show their love of the programme, promote their participation, and generate future course enquiries for your centre!

Rookie Lifeguard T-Shirt

Rookie Lifeguard Towel Robe

Rookie Lifeguard Hoodie