The RLSS UK Outdoor First Aid (OFA) course is a 16-hour, Level 3 qualification designed for anyone working or leading activities in outdoor or remote environments, where first aid may be more complex and medical help delayed. Open to learners aged 16+, it covers essential skills such as CPR, managing unresponsive casualties, bleeding, burns, fractures, head and spinal injuries, major illnesses, and dealing with environmental challenges like heat and cold. Delivered over two days (or modular across eight weeks), the course combines practical scenarios with theory, equipping participants to act confidently in emergencies. The qualification is valid for three years and recognised for meeting workplace and activity provider first aid requirements.
The RLSS UK Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) course is a one-day qualification that provides learners with the essential skills to respond to workplace emergencies with confidence. Open to anyone aged 16+, it covers core topics such as the role of the first aider, assessing an incident, CPR, using an AED, managing unresponsive casualties, treating wounds, bleeding, shock, minor injuries, burns, and medical conditions like choking or seizures. The course combines practical training with theory to meet Health and Safety Executive (HSE) requirements for low-risk workplaces, and successful candidates receive a certificate valid for three years.
*regulated by ofqualThe RLSS UK First Aid at Work (FAW) course is a three-day qualification that provides learners with the essential skills to respond to workplace emergencies with confidence. Open to anyone aged 16+, it covers core topics such as the role of the first aider, assessing an incident, CPR, using an AED, managing unresponsive casualties, treating wounds, bleeding, shock, minor injuries, burns, and medical conditions like choking or seizures. The course combines practical training with theory to meet Health and Safety Executive (HSE) requirements for low-risk workplaces, and successful candidates receive a certificate valid for three years.
*regulated by ofqualThe RLSS UK Open Water Lifeguard (OWL) course is a professional qualification designed to train lifeguards to supervise and ensure safety in open water venues such as lakes, reservoirs, and beaches. Suitable for candidates aged 16 and over who can swim 400m in under 8 minutes, the course develops skills in open water rescue, casualty management, CPR and first aid, communication, and accident prevention. Delivered through practical water-based training and theory sessions, it prepares lifeguards to handle the unique challenges of open water environments. The qualification is valid for two years and is recognised across the UK as the industry standard for open water safety supervision.
The RLSS UK National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) is the leading lifeguard training course in the UK and Ireland, equipping candidates with the skills needed to supervise pools and respond to emergencies with confidence. Open to learners aged 16 and over who can meet the swimming requirements, the course covers pool rescue techniques, CPR and first aid, casualty management, and accident prevention, alongside communication and teamworking skills. Combining practical poolside training with theory sessions, the NPLQ is widely recognised by employers as the industry standard for pool lifeguarding. The qualification is valid for two years and includes optional bolt-on modules such as Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and First Aid at Work.
Christopher Griffiths is a RLSS UK Approved Training Provider delivering a wide range of courses. Trading as Enjoy Water Safely, he is associated with Dashing Dolphins Learn to Swim and RLSS UK Qualifications in Worcester and has historical links with St John Ambulance (SJA) in Malvern.
Christopher Griffiths qualified as a First Aid trainer assessor in 2007 with SJA and converted to RLSS UK Qualifications (formerly IQL) in 2018.
Now he is developing his career as an RLSS UK Mentor and Trainer Assessor, using his 20 years of experience in the Leisure industry, supporting all ages to enjoy water safely. Most recently, he has been awarded a Degree in Education with Qualified Teacher Status in December 2025.
The RLSS UK National Rescue Award for Swimming Teachers and Coaches (NRASTC) is a specialist lifesaving qualification designed for those working on poolside as teachers, coaches, or assistants, providing them with the skills to respond effectively in an emergency. Suitable for candidates aged 16 and over, the course covers poolside rescue techniques, CPR and first aid, casualty management, and how to deal with pool-related emergencies, all tailored to the needs of swimming teaching and coaching environments. Delivered through both practical and theory sessions, NRASTC is widely recognised by employers and supports compliance with industry guidance on safety in swimming pools. The qualification is valid for two years and ensures teachers and coaches can provide a safe environment for participants.
The RLSS UK Aquatic Therapy Pool Rescue Award (ATPRA) is a specialised qualification for therapists, assistants, and staff working in aquatic therapy pools, ensuring they can respond quickly and effectively to emergencies in this unique environment. Aimed at candidates aged 16 and over, the course focuses on risk awareness, safe working practices, CPR and first aid, casualty recovery, and managing incidents in warm-water and shallow-pool settings often used for rehabilitation and therapy. Delivered through a blend of practical training and theory, ATPRA is recognised by employers and aligns with industry standards for safety in therapeutic pools. The qualification is valid for two years and helps ensure safe, professional care for pool users with additional needs.
The RLSS UK Emergency Response Pool Award (ER Pool) is designed for staff who work in and around swimming pools but are not qualified lifeguards, giving them the essential skills to respond in an emergency until help arrives. Suitable for candidates aged 16 and over, the course covers poolside emergency response, safe rescue techniques, CPR and basic first aid, as well as how to manage casualties and prevent incidents. Delivered through a mix of practical and theory training, ER Pool supports employers in meeting health and safety responsibilities and provides staff with confidence to act effectively in poolside situations. The qualification is valid for two years and is widely recognised across the leisure industry.
The RLSS UK Open Water Emergency Rescue Award (OWERA) is designed for those who supervise or assist at open water venues but do not need the full Open Water Lifeguard qualification. Aimed at candidates aged 16 and over, it provides the knowledge and skills to recognise hazards, carry out safe rescues, and respond to emergencies until professional help arrives. The course covers open water rescue techniques, casualty recovery, CPR and basic first aid, along with accident prevention and effective communication. Delivered through practical water-based training and theory sessions, OWERA is valid for two years and helps ensure safe participation in open water activities.
The RLSS UK Water Rescue Equipment Training (WRET) course is designed for staff who may need to use specialised rescue equipment in pool or open water environments. Suitable for candidates aged 16 and over, it covers the safe use of rescue aids such as throw bags, rescue tubes, shepherd’s crooks, and other lifesaving equipment, as well as effective rescue techniques and casualty management. Delivered through practical, hands-on training with supporting theory, WRET ensures participants can respond safely and confidently during water emergencies. The qualification is valid for two years and complements other RLSS UK lifesaving and rescue awards.
The National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) is the UK and Ireland’s leading, internationally recognised lifeguard certification requiring 36+ hours of training, a final assessment, and is open to anyone 16+ who meets the fitness criteria.
The Open Water Lifeguard (OWL) qualification equips lifeguards with the skills to supervise and provide rescue cover for planned, organised, and risk-assessed activities in still, non-tidal water. The OWL course is at least 18 hours long and covers CPR, first aid, and open water skills. The OWL qualification is valid for 2 years from the date of successful completion.
The Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) course is a one-day qualification covering CPR and emergency first aid skills. It is suitable for all industries and enables employers to meet HSE and HSENI requirements. The course is Ofqual, CCEA, and Qualification Wales accredited and valid for three years.