Programming and registration

Lifeguard Training

Register for these programs to become a lifeguard and/or swim Instructor. You can register for more than one course while respecting the established sequence of courses. Attendance is required.

Liste des cours


Bronze Star

Prerequisite: 11 – 14 years old, Swim 100m
This course develops swimming proficiency, lifesaving skill and personal fitness. Candidates refine their stroke mechanics, acquire self-rescue skills, and apply fitness principles in training workouts. Bronze Star is excellent preparation for success in Bronze Medallion and provides a fun introduction to lifesaving sport. There is a timed, continuous swim component that must be achieved to successfully complete the level.

Bronze Medallion

Prerequisite: 11 years old, Bronze Star certifications OR 13 years old by the exam date AND must have completed the highest level of a certified swimming program.
This course challenges the candidate both mentally and physically. Judgment, knowledge, skill, and fitness— the four components of water rescue— form the basis of Bronze Medallion training. Candidates acquire the assessment and problem-solving skills needed to make good decisions in, on, and around the water. There is a timed, continuous swim component that must be achieved to successfully complete the level. A minimum class attendance of 75% is mandatory. The exam takes place on the last day of class, attendance required. Manual and certification fees included.

Bronze Cross

Prerequisite: Bronze Medallion
This course begins the transition from lifesaving to lifeguarding and prepares candidates for responsibilities as assistant lifeguards. Candidates strengthen and expand their lifesaving skills and begin to apply the principles and techniques of active surveillance in aquatic facilities. Bronze Cross emphasizes the importance of teamwork and communication in preventing and responding to aquatic emergencies. Bronze Cross is a prerequisite for advanced training in the Society’s National Lifeguard and leadership certification programs. A minimum class attendance of 75% is mandatory. The exam takes place on the last day of class, attendance required. There is a timed, continuous
swim component that must be achieved to successfully complete the level.

Standard First Aid

This course provides comprehensive training covering all aspects of first aid and CPR. Standard First Aid incorporates all of Emergency First Aid and is designed for those who require a more in-depth understanding of first aid including: legal implications of first aid treatment, spinal injuries, heat or cold injuries, bone and joint injuries, chest injuries, and medical emergencies. Includes CPR-C certification. A perfect attendance score (100%) is mandatory.

National Lifeguard

Prerequisite: minimum 15 years of age, Bronze Cross, Standard First Aid
The National Lifeguard certification is Canada’s professional lifeguard standard, it develops a sound understanding of lifeguarding principles, good judgment, and a mature and responsible attitude towards the lifeguard’s role. National Lifeguard training emphasizes prevention and effective rescue response in emergencies including first aid treatment. Candidates develop teamwork, leadership and communication skills. Fitness requirements include a timed object recovery, 50 m sprint challenge, 50 m rescue drill and 400 m timed endurance challenge. A minimum class attendance of 90% is mandatory. The exam takes place on the last day of class, attendance required

Recertification National Lifeguard

National Lifeguard certification is valid for two years and is recertified by completing a National Lifeguard recertification exam. To prepare for the exam, candidates are responsible for reviewing the required content and skills. Candidates should bring Alert, a whistle, barrier devices (gloves and pocket mask) and proof of prerequisite (previous National Lifeguard). There is a timed, continuous swim component that must be achieved to successfully complete the level.

Swim & Lifesaving Instructor Lifesaving Society

Prerequisite: 15 years of age by the end of the Swim Instructor Course, and Bronze Cross (or higher) certification.
The Lifesaving Society Swim and Lifesaving Instructor course prepares you to teach and evaluate basic swim strokes and related skills. You will learn proven teaching methods, a variety of stroke development drills, and correction techniques. You can teach and certify candidates in all levels of the Swim for Life® (swimming lessons) swim patrol and lifesaving programs.

Lifesaving practice

Prerequisite: be registered in a lifesaving course at the ACC
These sessions are available for those registered in a bronze level class or National Lifeguard, who wish to practice their physical and lifesaving skills and who are preparing for their next lifesaving class or exam. An instructor will be present to provide guidance. Request a session with the Aquatic Coordinator [email protected].

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