- Home »
- Facilities »
- Swimming pool » Courses
Courses
National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) Course
If you are aged 16 or over and interested in becoming a qualified lifeguard, our National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) courses provide the skills, confidence and training needed to begin a career in the leisure and fitness industry.
Held throughout the year at Ashville Sports Centre, our intensive week-long lifeguard training courses combine practical pool sessions with classroom learning to prepare candidates for the nationally recognised NPLQ qualification.
Whether you are looking for a valuable addition to your CV, want to gain life-saving skills, or are considering a career in sport and leisure, becoming a lifeguard is an excellent place to start.
Why Complete an NPLQ Course?
During the course, you will:
- Gain an internationally recognised lifeguard qualification valid for 2 years
- Build confidence in and around the water
- Improve swimming ability and general fitness
- Learn essential first aid and CPR skills
- Develop teamwork and communication skills
- Earn 8 UCAS Tariff points
- Strengthen university, apprenticeship and job applications
Many leisure professionals begin their careers as lifeguards, making this qualification an ideal first step into the sports and fitness industry.
Course Cost
The cost of the course is £275 and includes:
- All course materials and training manual
- Pool time and practical training
- External assessment fees
Payment must be made at least 2 weeks prior to the course start date.
Entry Requirements
To enrol on the course, candidates must be 16 years old by the final assessment date and able to complete the following swim test requirements:
- Jump or dive into deep water
- Swim 50 metres in under 60 seconds
- Swim 100 metres continuously on front and back in deep water
- Tread water for 30 seconds
- Surface dive to the floor of the pool
- Climb out unaided without ladders or steps (where pool design permits)
Employment Opportunities
Successful candidates may have the opportunity to apply to become a Sports Assistant at Ashville Sports Centre following completion of the course.
Upcoming Course Dates:
Summer Course 1
Tuesday 21 July – Saturday 25 July
9.00am – 5.00pm daily
Summer Course 2
Monday 24 August – Friday 28 August.
9.00am – 5.00pm daily
To book your place or enquire, email: course@ashville.co.uk
Register your interest
Register your interest today and we will be in touch.
Testimonials
Large length pool, nice changing room with underfloor heating. The staff are always friendly, polite and helpful.

Lovely changing room and showers – feels luxurious. As a swim member I love the pool and access to lane swimming. The wide lanes are fantastic.

Friendly atmosphere and helpful staff. Excellent facilities and pool.

Almost always able to use the equipment without a wait and the ambience is relaxed and friendly, doesn’t feel pressured like some gyms.

Ashville Sports Centre pool is a Harrogate hidden gem! It is so reasonably priced for such a large pool and modern changing facilities. I started coming to swim a few years ago, on a pay as you go basis, when I was training for the Great North Swim. Now I am a full member and regularly take advantage of both the pool and gym facilities.
