You must be physically fit and able to swim 200m in the surf as well as run 200m on the beach in under 60 seconds.
People who want to work as surf instructors, outdoor activity instructors or embark on careers in rescue and emergency care.
The course runs over three days. You’ll be continually assessed throughout the process. This is not a pay to pass course, if you don’t meet the required standard set out by SLSGB, you won’t be signed off as competent.
Lifeguarding Theory, CPR, First Aid, Spinal management and Open Water Skills.
Previous experience is desirable but not essential as all training will be provided during the course. Having basic board skills and a knowledge of the beach and ocean environments will help.
On day one of all courses we meet at Harlyn Surf School located on the beach at Harlyn Bay. Our theory sessions are delivered in Trevone, a three minute drive away. Wet sessions are delivered back on the beach at Harlyn.
Yes, you will need your own vehicle or have someone to drop off and pick you up. People on the course normally end up car sharing once everyone has got to know each other on day one. Please do not worry if this is a major problem for you, we realise some of you travel from overseas and have used public transport to get to us. If this is a problem then please notify us prior to the course starting.
You can drink as much tea and coffee as is humanly possible but you will need to either bring a packed lunch or have money to buy something. St Merryn has a fantastic bakery/Deli and Padstow Tesco is up the road.
Candidates must be age 16 on the day of the exam.
24 months from the date of assessment.
We don’t offer accommodation but can recommend a few options in the local area.
Treyarnon Youth Hostel - 5 minutes away from us by car and surrounded by great surf beaches. To check availability please 01841 520 322.
Higher Harlyn Park - If you like the great outdoors then consider this campsite which is 2 minutes away from the beach by car and conveniently close to the village of St Merryn. Higher Harlyn Park offers great facilities and views. Please contact their office on 01841 520 022.
The Harlyn Inn – A stone’s throw away from the beach. This pub is often lively at weekends with live bands and popular with the local surf community. 01841 520 207.
£250 including SLSGB membership, training manual, exam fee and certification.
The Surf Coach Safety Award is specifically designed for surf coaches who need to have a lifesaving qualification. It cannot be used to apply for beach lifeguard jobs. The Surf Lifeguard contains a timed pool swim of 7 minutes 30 seconds, (the first 200m in under 3 mins 30 secs) as well as run 200m on the beach in under 40 seconds. Although there is no timed swim for Surf Coaches, you will still be expected to demonstrate that you are competent in the surf. We run both courses together at the same time but the group will be split on assessment day.
This qualification is specifically designed for those working or looking to work in the surf school industry. Some outdoor activity centres accept this award but please check prior to attending the course.