Pool Lifeguard Practising Certificate
Sport & Recreation
A course by
Te Mahi Ako
The Pool Lifeguard Practising Certificate (PLPC) is the nationally-recognised minimum qualification for working as a pool lifeguard in New Zealand. It provides essential skills and is the first step toward a career as a professional pool lifeguard.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Core skills this course teaches
Understand the role of a pool lifeguard
Develop knowledge of the responsibilities and expectations of pool lifeguards in aquatic facilities.
Supervise aquatic facilities safely
Apply aquatic supervision techniques to ensure the safety of pool users.
Demonstrate aquatic rescue skills
Show competence in a range of rescue scenarios for people in aquatic environments.
What You're Signing Up For
The Pool Lifeguard Practising Certificate is the minimum qualification required to work as a pool lifeguard in New Zealand. The certificate involves workplace-based training and assessment across two stages, covering the roles and responsibilities of lifeguarding, aquatic supervision and rescue techniques, and practical on-the-job validation. Enrolment is open to those 16 or older, currently working (paid or volunteer) at an aquatic facility, with prerequisites including a swim test and a current First Aid certificate. Upon completion, graduates will be ready to supervise pool users and respond to emergencies, and can progress to further aquatics qualifications.
Course Content
- Roles and responsibilities of pool lifeguards
- Aquatic supervision techniques
- Aquatic rescue techniques for various scenarios
- Facility induction
- Health and safety assessment
- Maintaining a Pool Lifeguard Logbook (including 20 hours of poolside supervision, facility inspections, hazard management, supervision of aquatic activities)
What you need to know first
Must be at least 16 years old at training start date
Currently working (paid or volunteer with regular/consistent shifts) at a pool or aquatic facility
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Sport & recreation
Aquatics
Public safety
Future employment opportunities might be
Pool lifeguard (entry-level roles)
Aquatic facility attendant
Progression to higher-level lifeguard roles