National Lifesaving Academy

The National Lifesaving Academy (NLA), is the programme designed to provide skills for life and which includes beach, pool and open water elements.

As part of the programme, we have brought back the prestigious Bronze Medallion, recognising this important part of our heritage through an award that creates closer links with our lifesaving to lifeguarding pathway.

More about the National Lifesaving Academy

Training lifesavers of today and lifeguards of tomorrow. Read more

Become a National Lifesaving Academy Instructor

Find out how to qualify or update to deliver the programme. Read more

Find your nearest club

Find your nearest lifesaving programme. Read more

National Lifesaving Academy Merchandise

Join as a Member

Fun benefits designed to help lifesavers on their journey. Read more

Sport Awards

The National Lifesaving Academy (NLA) Sport Awards are a fantastic opportunity for lifesavers and swimmers aged 12 years and above to get involved with Lifesaving Sport. Read more

Latest

National Speed Lifesaving Championships 2024
Birmingham lifeguards victorious after retaining title in national competition

A team containing the cream of lifeguarding talent from the Birmingham Community Leisure Trust (BCLT) have won a national lifeguard competition, pushing aside teams from across the UK to win the Serco Leisure Lifeguard Competition at the iconic Stoke Mandeville Stadium.
Make a Splash with Thanet Open Water Community!

We caught up Thanet Open Water Community to discuss the 1891 Challenge, open water swimming benefits, fundraising and motivation tips…
RLSS UK Christmas Appeal 2023

Dedicate a light on the RLSS UK virtual Christmas tree to celebrate or remember a loved one this Christmas and help support our work.

National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ)

The Royal Life Saving Society UK 's National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ). The UK’s most popular Pool Lifeguard Training and Certification with courses across the UK and Ireland.
Your RLSS UK Account (powered by tahdah)

Find out how to log in to your RLSS UK Account (powered by tahdah), view our how-to guides, and all the latest FAQs.
Find a Course (RLSS UK Course Finder)

Looking to find a course? This page will direct you to where you need to go.
RLSS UK Qualifications and Awards
Cold Water Shock – the Facts

The term ‘cold water shock’ refers to a range of natural reactions that our bodies take to protect us when we enter cold water (although these reactions can sometimes work against us).
National Vocational Beach Lifeguard Qualification (NVBLQ)

The National Vocational Beach Lifeguard Qualification (NVBLQ) is the core qualification for anyone seeking employment on UK Beaches. The NVBLQ ensures that the qualified lifeguard has the knowledge and skills required to operate effectively across a range of beach environments.
National Rescue Award for Swimming Teachers and Coaches (NRASTC)

NRASTC is a supervision and rescue qualification for teachers working on the poolside or in the water during programmed activities, such as a swimming lesson.
Winter Water Safety

Children are at risk when tempted to play on the ice and adults can find themselves at risk attempting to save them.
Contact Us

If you are looking to make an enquiry to the society, our customer service team will be able to help.
The stages of the Rookie Lifeguard programme

Rookie Lifeguards can receive a certificate, badge and sticker to mark their progress in their own progress book.