Published 8 April 2019

The Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK) has launched new award called Pool to Pond to help operators cater for the growing demand for open water swimming.

RLSS UK’s new Pool to Pond award targets regular pool swimmers who want to try open water swimming for the first time. It is designed to support these customers as they make the transition from the swimming pool to open water.

Those becoming Pool to Pond Instructors will be able to teach participants the core skills needed for open water swimming as well as how to keep safe in open water. Other topics covered include open water equipment and how to plan and prepare for swims.

The award has been designed to be delivered flexibly to meet the needs of both operators and participants. Typically delivered over five sessions, the first four sessions are delivered in a classroom and swimming pool, with the final session taking place at an open water venue allowing participants to take that step and swim in open water.

“Open water swimming continues to grow in popularity with thousands of people taking part in events across the UK every year. Our new award allows operators to tap into this trend by offering their customers a safe introduction to the activity while securing new revenues,” says Jo Talbot, Director of IQL, Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK). 

Current members of RLSS UK who hold either an Open Water Lifeguard (OWL) or National Vocational Beach Lifeguard Qualification (NVBLQ) Trainer Assessor qualification will be able to upskill online to deliver this award.

Anyone holding Triathlon Coaching or Swimming Teacher qualifications with open water experience can complete the online application process here.