Core Training Programs
At North Palm Beach SLSC we offer a range of training programs for members and the general public. If you would like to become a surf lifesaver, there are several awards you can gain to start patrolling:
Bronze Medallion
This is the minimum requirement for a surf lifesaver. To undertake this award you must be over the age of 15 and will be required to complete a prerequisite 400m swim in under 9 minutes. Once this competency is completed, qualified instructors will take you through the challenging but immensely satisfying journey that is the Bronze Medallion course. The categories that will be covered include:
- Safety and Wellbeing
- Surf Awareness and Skills
- The Human Body
- Resuscitation
- Defibrillation and basic oxygen techniques
- First Aid
- Communications
- Radio Operations
- Rescue Techniques
- Carries & Supports
- Beach Management
Following the training period, your competency will be tested through a variety of physical and theoretical tests. You’ll be required to do the classic surf lifesaving ‘run-swim-run’ (200m each leg) in under 8 minutes, and a whole range of other activities that may include role-plays, oral and written questioning, practical demonstrations and performing scenarios. It’s a great opportunity for you to push yourself out of your comfort zone, and learn to perform under pressure with a group of like-minded people.
For a more detailed description download the Bronze Medallion Summary & Syllabus
Surf Rescue Certificate (SRC)
The aim of this course is to provide participants with the skills and knowledge of basic patrolling and surf awareness in order to be able to participate in lifesaving operations. This course is the minimum water safety qualification for Junior Activity supervision.
Candidates must meet ALL of the following conditions:
- be a least 13 years of age on the date of the assessment
- have completed a 200 metre swim in five (5) minutes or less , unaided (goggles/mask permitted), in a swimming pool not less than 25 metres, or over a measured open water course which will be observed prior to the candidate undertaking any water training or assessment activities, evidence of which must be provided to the Assessor on the timed swim form prior to commencement of the assessment for this qualification.
Read more about the SRC in the SRC Award Summary & Syllabus
First Aid
This course is available commercially via SLSNSW and other registered training organisations. Some Surf Life Saving Clubs may offer the course to members as a part of their annual training schedule. It is not available through the Sydney Northern Beaches branch office.
The course provides participants with the knowledge and skills needed to manage emergency first aid situations and deliver competent emergency care until the arrival of professional medical support. Once completed, participants will obtain a first aid certificate that is valid for three years. The Provide First Aid course is nationally recognised WorkCover approved training. Download course overview here.
Other Awards
Rescue Water Craft Operator Certificate (RWC)
Head to the SLSSNB website for all further information regarding the Training Program.
Inflatable Rescue Boat (IRB) Crew and Driver awards (IRBC and IRBD)
The aim of this course is to provide participants with the skills and knowledge to crew an Inflatable Rescue Boat (IRB) in surf rescue operations. Download a copy of the IRBC and IRBD, course syllabus.
Radio Operators
The aim of this course is to provide participants with the skills and knowledge to operate communications systems and equipment in surf lifesaving operations. Download a copy of the course syllabus here.
Silver Medallion Aquatic Rescue (SMAR)
The aim of this course is to provide participants with the skills and knowledge to participate in search and rescue operations. Download a copy of the course syllabus here.
Gold Medallion
The aim of this award is to provide lifesavers with a benchmark of fitness and endurance that meets the minimum requirements for work in the professional lifeguard industry. More information here.
Silver Medallion Beach Management
The aim of this course is to provide participants with the skills, knowledge and experience required to manage a lifesaving or lifeguarding team in emergency and non - emergency situations. The course is aimed at people wishing to be patrol captains and senior lifeguards. Syllabus here.
Spinal Management
The aim of this course is to provide participants with the skills and knowledge to manage injured casualties with suspected spinal injuries in an aquatic environment and in emergency situations. Download a copy of the course syllabus here.
Training Officer Certificate
The aim of this course is to provide participants with the skills, knowledge and experience to deliver quality training of Surf Life Saving awards. This is a pre-requisite to being a trainer in Surf Life Saving awards. Go here to find out more.
Advanced Resuscitation Techniques Certificate (ARTC)
The aim of this course is to provide participants with the skills, knowledge and application of oxygen, airway management devices, and automated external defibrillators during resuscitation, and to administer oxygen to conscious and unconscious breathing casualties. More information in the Course Syllabus
For more information see the Awards and Qualifications chart on the SLS SNB page.