RNLI lifeguards training to teach next generation of lifesavers
Dan Seagrove-Castle and Andrew Locke have been developing their skills with the Royal Lifesaving Society (RLSS UK) to become qualified Trainer Assessors for the National Vocational Beach Lifeguard Qualification (NVBLQ), ensuring that aspiring lifeguards will have the training to achieve their goals.
Both Dan and Andrew have been RNLI lifeguards in Thanet since 2013 and obtained their lifeguard qualifications through Thanet Lifeguard Club. They are still active RNLI lifeguards as casuals to support the area service.
The probationary process involves them delivering and assessing training with the support of an experienced mentor to be deemed competent within RLSS UK guidelines.
Dan says ‘We want to deliver skills to new people who want to join the lifesaving community of beach lifeguards, either professionally or as volunteers.
This has been the opportunity of a lifetime. From swimming competitively at a national level, to travelling and lifeguarding in Australia, I’ve developed such a love for the lifeguarding community and it feels fantastic to help other people start on that journey and to give them those opportunities.’
Andrew works for his family business in the motor trade as a mechanic. He says, ‘I feel it’s time to give back and help share my knowledge to aid others that are keen to join the team. Increasing the numbers of trained, competent lifeguards in the area can only ever be a good thing.’
Stuart Cattell, RNLI Lifeguard Supervisor for Thanet and Swale and RLSS National Trainer Assessor (NTA) says, ‘Having trained and worked with Dan and Andrew over the years, it’s been a pleasure to help them develop and see them continue their journeys within the RNLI and RLSS. I look forward to working with them in the training of new lifeguards to the same impeccable standard they have maintained.
‘We’re always looking for new recruits, so if you would be interested in becoming a lifeguard in the future then search online for local NVBLQ courses in your area and apply. You never know where it can lead you.’
For more information on the RLSS, visit www.rlss.org.uk
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