RLSS UK confirmed as finalist for the ukactive Awards 2024 – Education Provider of the Year Award

We are delighted that RLSS UK is a finalist for the ukactive Awards 2024 in the Education Provider of the Year category.

The Education Provider of the Year Award recognises an organisation or programme that delivers excellent services, demonstrates innovative resources and assessments, and enables learners to obtain high-quality skills valued by employers. 

Jo Talbot, Commercial Director, commented, "I am thrilled that judges have acknowledged our lifeguard training innovations and global impact. 2023 was a significant year for RLSS UK. Our pioneering work to challenge and transform lifeguarding methods and improve pool lifeguards' skills and abilities to provide safe places to enjoy water deserves this recognition. 

I look forward to presenting more on RLSS UK's ongoing commitment to making swimming pool environments safer for everyone during stage two of the rigorous process." 

RLSS UK’s written submission described how, in July 2023, RLSS UK revolutionised pool lifeguarding and improved swimming pool safety for operators by launching the Level 3 Award in Pool Lifeguarding - more commonly known as the National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) Gen 10. 

Ground-breaking research conducted in collaboration with the University of Chichester informed the latest generation of the NPLQ. The study focused on lifeguard scanning and supervision methods, leading to critical changes in lifeguard protocols for enhanced safety adopted by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and operators worldwide 

Building on the research findings, RLSS UK consulted with pool operators and lifeguards to ensure development supported their needs. The NPLQ now includes a wide range of added content, including training focused on building customer communication skills, new, industry-first 360-degree scanning videos that enhance the opportunity to practice hazard identification, and mental health and wellbeing advice for lifeguards. All while ensuring that our lifeguard training engages all types of learners. 

Endorsed by the CIMSPA Lifeguard Standard, the NPLQ sits firmly within the apprenticeship framework. It is now a Level 3 qualification, for the first time carrying UCAS Tariff points—rightfully respecting and recognising a lifeguard's technical skills and significant role in helping people enjoy water safely. 

The stage two assessment during August will be the Judges' House presentations, allowing us to present our successes and provide further details and evidence that complement our written submission to a panel of expert judges.

Ukactive will announce award winners at the International Convention Centre in Birmingham on Thursday 3 October 2024. 

For more information on the ukactive awards