National Lifeguard School pushes top lifeguards to advance their skills

Fifteen of New Zealand’s top volunteer Surf Lifeguards were put through their paces at Surf Life Saving New Zealand’s National Lifeguard School at Waihi Beach last weekend.  Participants completed a dynamic and intensive training weekend to further advance their knowledge and experience. The weekend enabled them to progress towards achieving their Advanced Lifeguard Award, the highest Surf Life Saving Award available in New Zealand. 

The Volunteer Surf Lifeguards, from as far south as Brighton and as far north as Red Beach, travelled to Waihi Surf Life Saving Club to take part in the National Lifeguard School from December 8^th – 11^th. Participants completed the school in challenging conditions with a big swell running directly into Waihi beach.

Between the physically demanding sessions, candidates undertook classroom-based learning, team building activities and well-orchestrated patrol, first aid and search scenarios. 

Surf Life Saving New Zealand, National Education Manager, Belinda Slement said the candidates were challenged from start to finish during the “high octane” weekend. 

“The weekend really tested the candidates with full days that started early and finished late. They were put into high-stress situations that required them to develop advanced skills and demonstrate knowledge. They all did a fantastic job stepping up to the challenge.” 

National Lifeguard School is critical for building the organisation’s lifeguarding capability across the country. 

Belinda said, “National Lifeguard School provides a goal for all Surf Lifeguards to aim for and pushes them to be the best they can be. It offers participants the opportunity to build their skillset and knowledge to a high level. They take these valuable learnings and the confidence they have developed back to their home beaches across the regions, and can help inspire other lifeguards coming through the ranks.” 

The school is carried out by an inspiring team of highly skilled instructors with extensive real-life rescue, search and first aid experience. Throughout the weekend, candidates were constantly observed and evaluated by staff and instructors in the search for the school’s standout pupil. 

The top candidate award recognises the individual who consistently demonstrates the attributes of an advanced lifeguard. Leadership, teamwork, diligence, tenacity, knowledge, lifeguarding skills and physical ability are all equally weighted in consideration.