To qualify for the Swim Leaders program with previously gained qualifications you must hold one of the following awards;

RLSS National Pool Lifeguard - The NPLQ (National Pool Lifeguard Qualification) is the only award accepted by swimming pools throughout the UK. The award teaches the lifeguard the vital skills of first aid, accident prevention, rescue techniques for both concious and unconcious victims and the value of providing a professional service.

RLSS National Beach Lifeguard - The NBLQ (National Beach Lifguard Qualification) is based around the lifeguarding skills required to perform professionally in a beach environment. Candidates will learn first aid, accident prevention for the beach along with the rescue techniques and theory required to operate a safe beach.

Amateur Swimming Association Level 1 - The ASA is the governing body for swimming in the UK with the Teachers Level 1 qualification as the most frequently completed award. The training program ensures that applicants are fully educated in the technical knowledge, health and safety, child protection and teaching techniques required to be a strong swimming instrcutor.

Swimming Teaching Association Level 1 - The STA is the UK's second largest swimming teachers' organisation, with the STA Level 1 being recognised as an equivilant to the ASA Level 1. Candidates on the course are taught the principles of conducting a lesson, coaching techniques, water safety and practical swimming.

Irish Swimming Teachers Award Level 1 - This award is offered by the Irish governing body for swimming, Swim Ireland, and is the Irish equivlant to the UK ASA level 1. The criteria for the award run paralell to the ASA qualifications and teaches instructors the theories of technical knowledge, health and safety, child protection and teaching techniques.
(More information on each of these awards can be found at www.britishswimming.org, www.lifesavers.org.uk, www.sta.co.uk or www.swimireland.ie)