Do I need the NPLQ to be a pool lifeguard?

Most UK pools ask for the RLSS National Pool Lifeguard Qualification or an equivalent. Check the advert for the exact requirement.

What if my NPLQ has run out?

Be honest about the date and say that you are booked on, or ready to take, a requalification course.

Can I apply if I am under 18?

Policies vary by employer, so check the advert and ask the pool directly if you are unsure.

What should I put if I have never worked as a lifeguard?

List your qualification, any swimming club or volunteering experience and your availability. Employers know every lifeguard needs a first job.

Lifeguard CV example

A strong lifeguard CV shows your current pool lifeguard qualification, your first aid training and the alert, steady way you keep swimmers safe. It should also mention shift flexibility, because pools need cover early, late and at weekends.

Sofia Rossi

Lifeguard

sofia@example.com · 07700 900188 · Brighton

Profile

Alert and calm lifeguard holding a current RLSS National Pool Lifeguard Qualification and first aid certificate. Has two summers of experience supervising a busy public pool, including school swimming sessions and family swim time. Reliable with early and weekend shifts, and confident when talking to swimmers about pool rules.

Experience

Pool Lifeguard

a council leisure centre

Supervised the main pool and learner pool during public swimming, following the pool's operating procedure

Scanned the water continuously and swapped positions with colleagues to stay alert during long sessions

Gave first aid to swimmers and recorded each incident in the accident book

Worked alongside teachers and swimming instructors during school swimming sessions

Took pool water readings and checked rescue equipment at the start of each shift

Poolside Attendant

a holiday park pool

Welcomed guests, explained pool rules and kept walkways clear of hazards

Kept the poolside clean, dry and tidy throughout each shift

Completed an NPLQ course and was asked to join the lifeguard rota

Worked weekend and school-holiday shifts, including early openings

Example · fictional candidate · Monogram design · Use this design

Tips for a lifeguard CV

Put your RLSS National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) first, with the date it runs until
List your first aid training, such as CPR and defibrillator use, if you have it
Mention the type of pool, such as a council leisure centre, school pool or hotel pool, and the sessions you covered
Show that you can stay focused for long spells, for example by describing how you swap positions
Be clear about your availability, including early mornings, evenings, weekends and school holidays

Applying with a cover letter? See our lifeguard cover letter example.