About
Becoming a Lifeguard may have become more popular thanks to Baywatch, but we’re sorry to tell you it’s not just about running across a sun-kissed beach with the sun gleaming down all summer. Sadly, we do see spells of liquid sunshine, but don’t let that put you off!
You must be fit, focused and ready to respond to an emergency. You will need to be a good team player and communicator, as well as proactive and hardworking, to succeed in this hands-on role. So, with that in mind, could you be a Lifeguard?
Training & Qualification Pathway
Trainee Lifeguards must be prepared to undertake a lifeguarding course and on-site training. No previous lifeguarding experience is required.
An initial contribution of £80 is required to secure your place on the course. A further £120 will be held from your wages to cover the remaining cost of the qualification, bringing the total contribution to £200.
Upon meeting the following criteria,
- You have worked a full season with Cliff Lakes (May – September), and
- You have completed a minimum of 200 working hours during the season.
- You attend regular CPD training sessions as required.
The full £200 will be refunded. This means that by the end of the season, Cliff Lakes will have fully funded your qualification, which you are free to retain and use elsewhere.
If the above criteria are not met, the contribution will be retained to cover training and qualification costs.
Pay & Contract
This role is offered on a casual, seasonal basis, with hours varying in line with operational demand.
We offer a competitive rate of £12.00 – £13.50 per hour, depending on age, experience, and qualifications. Opportunities for additional hours are available during peak periods.
Key Dates
Candidates must be able to attend all course dates in full. Partial attendance is not permitted.
Skills Check:
This will take place on the evening of Friday 10th April, from 18:30 – 20:30 in a swimming pool where we will conduct a 400 meter swim test and then review basic life-saving skills.
Subject to passing the interview selection process, you will then progress to one of the courses below:
Course 1:
- Friday 17th April 2026 | 18:00 – 21:00
- Saturday 18th April 2026 | 09:00 – 17:00
- Sunday 19th April 2026 | 09:00 – 17:00
- Friday 24th April 2026 | 18:00 – 21:00
- Tuesday 28th April 2026 | 18:00 – 21:00
Course 2:
- Friday 8th May 2026 | 18:00 – 21:00
- Saturday 9th May 2026 | 09:00 – 17:00
- Sunday 10th May 2026 | 09:00 – 17:00
- Tuesday 12th May 2026 | 18:00 – 21:00
Start of Season Training
As part of your commitment, you must make yourself available for the following onboarding sessions
- 25th April – All staff induction & major incident training
- 26th April – Aqua Park Induction
- 10th May – Aqua Park Module – Theory
- 26th May – Aqua Park Module – Practical
Open Water Lifeguard Requirements
- Be 16 years old or over at the time of assessment
- Be competent and confident in open water.
- Be able to submerge under the water confidently.
- Swim 400 metres continuously in open water on your front, demonstrating confidence, stamina, and urgency.
- Be available for one of the 2 courses:
Benefits
- Discounts – up to 25% off food and beverage outlets
- Career Progression – Opportunities to move into Lifeguarding or specialist roles
- Parking – Free onsite staff parking
- Guest Perks – Complimentary ticket allowance for friends and family
- Activity Access – Free access to activities when not working
- Team Environment – Work as part of a fun, supportive team
- RLSS Open Water Lifeguard Qualification (OWL)
- RLSS Aqua Park Safety Module (Endorsed by the Aqua Park Association of UK & IRL)
