For participants aged 12 to 15 years, Surf Life Saving South Australia (SLSSA) offers the Higher Awards Program as an extension of VACSWIM. These programs build on the skills developed through VACSWIM and help bridge the gap between learn-to-swim participation and future opportunities within the aquatic and lifesaving industries.

The Higher Awards Program provides participants with valuable knowledge and practical skills to respond to emergency situations in and around the water. The available programs include Water Rescues (12 to 13 years), Community Surf Rescue (13 to 15 years) and Community Pool Rescue (13 to 15 years).

Water Rescues are delivered as 1-hour sessions, while Community Surf Rescue and Community Pool Rescue are delivered as 1.5-hour sessions. Each course costs $72.50, plus a location fee (approximately $25 to $35, depending on the venue).

Please note: As these programs are an extension of VACSWIM, they are not subsidised by the South Australian Government.

Water Rescues (12 to 13 years)

The non-accredited Water Rescues program introduces participants to essential lifesaving skills, including performing basic water rescues, identifying hazards and dangers, resuscitation awareness, basic first aid principles and water supervision skills relevant to different aquatic environments.

This program is the perfect introduction for young people aged 12 to 13 years, helping them develop the knowledge and confidence to keep themselves and their friends safe around water.

Community Surf Rescue and Community Pool Rescue (13 to 15 years)

Building on the skills learned in Water Rescues, the non-accredited Community Surf Rescue and Community Pool Rescue programs provide participants with foundational rescue and emergency response knowledge as they work towards formal lifesaving qualifications.

Participants who complete either Community Surf Rescue or Community Pool Rescue through VACSWIM will receive a discount code to enrol in a formal Community Surf Rescue course. This pathway enables participants to gain nationally recognised accreditation, obtain rescue qualifications and begin their journey towards employment opportunities within the aquatic industry.

Upon successful completion of the accredited Community Surf Rescue course, participants may be issued the following Units of Competency:

HLTAID009 Provide Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)

PUASAR013 Participate in an Aquatic Rescue Operation

Access to this training pathway is available to participants aged 13 to 15 years who have completed the Community Surf Rescue or Community Pool Rescue programs as part of the VACSWIM Higher Awards Program.