Higher Awards
As an extension to the VACSWIM program, Surf Life Saving SA are offering higher awards to recognise and assist emergency situations in and around the water - Water Rescues (12-13 years), Community Surf Rescue and Community Pool Rescue (13 - 15 years). Water Rescues are delivered as 1 hour classes and Community Surf Rescue and Community Pool Rescue are delivered as 1.5 hours classes, all courses at a cost $65.00 PLUS a location fee (approx. $25 - $35, depending on the location you are participating at).
Please note: as these levels are an extension of the VACSWIM program and is therefore NOT subsidised by the SA Government.
View the open water higher award pathway HERE
View the pool higher award pathway HERE
Water Rescues (12-13 years)
In the non-accredited Water Rescues, participants will be introduced to performing rescues, identifying dangers, resuscitation, basic first aid, and water supervision skills relevant to the environment they are participating in. This is the perfect introduction for those aged 12-13 years on how to keep themselves and their mates safe in aquatic environments.
View the Water Rescues lesson outcomes HERE
Community Surf Rescue & Community Pool Rescue (13-15 years)
To further skills learnt in the Water Rescues, Surf Life Saving SA is offering the non-accredited Community Surf Rescue and Community Pool Rescue program. The program provides participants with the learnings needed as they work towards gaining their relevant Certificate.
There will be an opportunity for participants to attend a training hub to assess skills learnt and to be issued the relevant certificate for an additional $60.00.
The training hub will issue two Units of Competency, see below:
Community Surf Rescue Certificate: HLTAID009 Provide CPR & PUASAR013 Participate in an Aquatic Rescue Operation
Community Pool Rescue Certificate: HLTAID009 Provide CPR & SISCAQU020 Perform Water Rescues
The training hub is only available to those aged 13-15 years, who have completed the Community Surf Rescue & Community Pool Rescue courses as an extension to the VACSWIM program.
View the Community Surf Rescue lesson outcomes HERE
View the Community Pool Rescue lesson outcomes HERE
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Community Pool Rescue Certificate vs. Pool Rescue Certificate
The Pool Rescue Certificate is equivalent to the Royal Life Saving Bronze Medallion. All participants will have the opportunity to be assessed for the Pool Rescue Certificate at the training hub in the first instance. If they are unsuccessful in the extended assessment components, they will have the opportunity to be assessed for the Community Pool Rescue Certificate.
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What’s next?
By completing the above programs your child will then be on track to work within the aquatics industry if this is the route they would like to take. Not only do these roles provide the opportunity to develop valuable skills for life, it is a great way to earn some money during the summer!
To become an Assistant Instructor, you must:
- Be a minimum of 15 years prior to VACSWIM block 1 commencement
- Hold a current paid Working with Children's Check (volunteer checks cannot be accepted for paid positions)
- Hold a Play by the Rules - Child Protection and Safeguarding Certificate (FREE online course)
- Hold a rescue qualification i.e. Community Surf Rescue Certificate or Community Pool Rescue Certificate
You must participate in the training hub and successfully be issued the Community Surf Rescue Certificate, Community Pool Rescue Certificate or Pool Rescue Certificate once completing the 5-day program to be considered as an Assistant Instructor.
Please note: full courses can be completed through Surf Life Saving SA, for more information visit https://www.surflifesavingsa.com.au/courses