The Education and Proficiency Programs have been created by and is owned by the Alberta and Northwest Territories Branch of the Lifesaving Society. The Education and Proficiency Programs may be taken before or after instructor certification. These programs may also act as a gap filler between the Bronze Medals and National Lifeguard or Swim/Lifesaving Instructor.
Program information can be found in the Education and Proficiency Program Guide.
Proficiency programs are skill based programs that provide a foundational background to candidates. Proficiency programs build confidence and mastery of skill and knowledge. These programs focus on learning the content not learning to teach and as such do not replace instructor certifications.
Preschool Proficiency
The Preschool Proficiency program is a knowledge based program that enhances the understanding of preschoolers and how they learn, develop, and acquire skills in the water. Preschool Proficiency is not an instructor certification though it is of value to anyone wishing to enhance or revisit their skills. This can include but is not limited to: teens, adults, volunteers, caregivers, and instructors.
Prerequisite(s): 14 years of age
Certification Currency: 2 years from the date of certification
Recertification: None. Must complete an original Preschool Proficiency course to remain current
SwimAbilities® Proficiency
SwimAbilities® Proficiency is a knowledge based program that enhances the understanding of working with children with special needs. Candidates will learn techniques to use while working with children with special needs including: supports, communication, skills, and safety considerations. SwimAbilities® Proficiency is not an instructor certification though it is of value to anyone needing the knowledge and skills on how to work with kids with special needs. This can include but is not limited to: teens, adults, volunteers, caregivers, and instructors.
Prerequisite(s): 14 years of age
Certification Currency: 2 years from the date of certification
Recertification: None. Must complete an original SwimAbilities® Proficiency course to remain current
Lifeguard skills programs are skill based programs with value to both lifesavers and lifeguards. These programs will focus on foundational lifeguard skills to enhance knowledge and skills. They provide a consistent approach to training and the use of equipment. Lifeguard skills programs challenge candidates promote skill growth and development. Lifeguard skills training does not replace lifeguard training through the National Lifeguard Program.
Lifeguard Fitness Skills
The Lifeguard Fitness Skills program focuses on fitness, skills, and performance criteria allowing lifeguards and affiliates to assess and develop the fitness level of National Lifeguards and others that wish to enhance skills.
Prerequisite(s): 14 years of age and Bronze Cross (need not be current)
Certification Currency: 2 years from the date of certification
Recertification: None. Must complete an original Lifeguard Fitness Skills course to remain current
Attendant programs prepare candidates for employment as attendants at indoor and outdoor aquatic and multipurpose facilities. They provide standardized training for current and future staff who do not require specific vocational training such as lifeguards, coaching staff, or personal trainers. All Attendant programs train candidates in scanning, communication, and public relations to help them monitor various areas.
Attendants and employers should understand the Lifesaving Society Certified Attendants Position Statement.
Amenity Attendant
Candidates will learn how to effectively communicate and educate the public about safe, appropriate use of facilities, and their amenities as well as how to respond to minor emergencies as part of a team. Amenity Attendants can assist in monitoring a variety of amenities in an aquatic or multipurpose facility.
Pre-requisite(s): 14 years of age and Alberta Workplace approved Basic First Aid
Certification Currency: 2 years from the date of certification
Re-certification: None. Must complete an original Amenity Attendant course to remain current
Wading Pool Attendant
Candidates will learn how to effectively communicate and educate the public about safe and appropriate use of amenities, and how to respond to minor emergencies. Wading Pool Attendants can assist in monitoring wading pools where water is less than 1.2m deep and nearby amenities.
Prerequisite(s): 14 years of age and current Aquatic Emergency Care. Recommended: Amenity Attendant
Certification Currency: 2 years from the date of certification
Re-certification: None. Must complete an original Beach Attendant course to remain current
Shallow Water Attendant
Candidates will learn how to effectively communicate and educate the public about safe, appropriate use of amenities, and how to respond to minor emergencies as part of a team working with the leadership of a current National Lifeguard and under the guidance of a supervisor 18 years old (or older). Under the direction and leadership of a current National lifeguard, candidates can assist in attending to waterslide landing areas, lazy rivers, and other areas where the water is less than 1.2m deep.
Prerequisite(s): 14 years of age and current Aquatic Emergency Care OR 14 years of age, Bronze Cross (need not be current), and current AB workplace approved Basic First Aid. Recommended: Amenity Attendant
Certification Currency: 2 years from the date of certification
Re-certification: None. Must complete an original Shallow Water Attendant course to remain current
Beach Attendant
Candidates will learn how to effectively communicate and educate the public about safe and appropriate use of amenities, and how to respond to minor emergencies. Beach Attendants can assist in monitoring beachfront areas, beach amenities, and designated swimming areas where water is less than 1.2m deep.
Prerequisite(s): 14 years of age and current Aquatic Emergency Care. Recommended: Amenity Attendant
Certification Currency: 2 years from the date of certification
Re-certification: None. Must complete an original Beach Attendant course to remain current
For more information on Education & Proficiency programs, refer to the Policies & Procedures.
