ICTQual Level 3 Award in National Surf Coach Lifesaving (NSCL)

The ICTQual AB Level 3 Award in National Surf Coach Lifesaving (NSCL) is designed for individuals passionate about surf lifesaving and eager to develop professional coaching expertise in aquatic safety and rescue. This award provides learners with the skills, knowledge, and practical experience needed to operate confidently as surf lifesaving coaches, ensuring both the safety of participants and the effective delivery of training programmes in surf environments.

The course combines theoretical learning with practical, hands-on training in real-world coastal settings. Learners gain a deep understanding of surf hazards, rescue techniques, risk assessment, and emergency response procedures. In addition, the programme equips participants with coaching strategies tailored to developing athletes’ skills, fitness, and safety awareness in surf conditions.

Ideal for both aspiring surf coaches and those already involved in aquatic sports, this award emphasises the development of professional judgement, leadership, and decision-making under challenging conditions. Graduates will be competent in guiding groups of varying skill levels, implementing safe training practices, and responding effectively to emergencies in coastal environments.

By completing this qualification, learners not only enhance their employability in surf lifesaving, water sports coaching, and community safety roles, but also gain the confidence to make a positive impact on the well-being of participants in aquatic settings. Whether aiming to work with local surf clubs, schools, or recreational programmes, the ICTQual AB Level 3 NSCL Award provides a robust foundation for a rewarding career in surf coaching and lifesaving.

Course Overview

Level 3 Award in National Surf Coach Lifesaving (NSCL)

To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 3 Award in National Surf Coach Lifesaving (NSCL), learner must meet the following entry requirements:

  • Age Requirement: Learners must be at least 16 years old to enrol on this programme.
  • Identification: Valid proof of identity for certification purposes.
  • English Language Proficiency: Ability to understand, communicate, and follow instructions in English (or the language of delivery).
  • Professional Experience: Prior experience in surfing, surf coaching, or working in open water environments is recommended but not mandatory.
  • Physical Fitness: Good level of physical fitness to perform rescues in surf conditions.
  • Swimming Ability: Must be a competent swimmer capable of swimming at least 200 metres in open water without assistance.

This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 3 Award in National Surf Coach Lifesaving (NSCL), consists of 4 mandatory units.

  1. Principles of Surf Lifesaving and Coastal Safety
  2. Surf Rescue Techniques and Board/Paddle Rescue Skills
  3. First Aid, CPR, and Emergency Response in Surf Environments
  4. Communication, Teamwork, and Incident Management for Surf Coaches

Learning Outcomes for the Study Units:

  1. Principles of Surf Lifesaving and Coastal Safety
    • Explain key principles of surf lifesaving and the importance of coastal safety awareness.
    • Identify common surf and coastal hazards, including rip currents and changing weather conditions.
    • Apply preventive strategies to minimise risks in surf coaching environments.
  2. Surf Rescue Techniques and Board/Paddle Rescue Skills
    • Demonstrate safe and effective use of rescue boards and paddlecraft in surf conditions.
    • Perform rescues in varying wave and weather situations while maintaining personal safety.
    • Adapt rescue approaches based on casualty condition, surf conditions, and available equipment.
  3. First Aid, CPR, and Emergency Response in Surf Environments
    • Administer CPR and first aid for surf-related incidents such as drowning, spinal injuries, and hypothermia.
    • Utilise emergency response protocols specific to coastal and surf environments.
    • Assess casualty condition and provide stabilisation until advanced medical help arrives.
  4. Communication, Teamwork, and Incident Management for Surf Coaches
    • Communicate effectively with team members, emergency services, and casualties.
    • Apply leadership skills in high-pressure rescue scenarios.
    • Coordinate incident management plans to ensure efficient and safe resolution of emergencies.

Upon successful completion of the ICTQual AB Level 3 Award in National Surf Coach Lifesaving, learners can advance their skills and career opportunities in both surf lifesaving and aquatic safety. Possible progression pathways include:

  • ICTQual AB Level 4 Certificate/Diploma in Aquatic Rescue Management – for those aiming to take on supervisory or managerial roles in lifesaving operations.
  • Advanced Surf Lifesaving & Open Water Rescue Courses – to develop specialist rescue and high-performance coaching skills.
  • Beach Lifeguard Trainer/Assessor Qualifications – for learners interested in training and assessing new lifeguards and surf coaches.
  • Search and Rescue (SAR) or Emergency Response Training – including qualifications in flood rescue, open water rescue, or swift water operations.
  • Sports Coaching and Instructor Development – progression into higher-level surf coaching certifications, integrating safety and rescue competencies.
  • Emergency Services or Coastguard Careers – providing a pathway into professional rescue and response roles.

This qualification lays the foundation for leadership roles in surf safety, enabling learners to contribute to safer coastal environments and the professional development of future surf coaches.

FAQs

This course is designed for surf coaches, surf school instructors, and individuals involved in coastal water sports who require essential lifesaving, rescue, and safety management skills. It is also suitable for aspiring surf safety professionals seeking internationally recognised certification.

Graduates of the ICTQual AB Level 3 NSCL Award can pursue careers in surf lifesaving, water sports coaching, and aquatic safety management. Opportunities include roles as surf coaches, lifeguards, community surf instructors, or trainers for schools and local surf clubs. This qualification also enhances employability in recreational water programmes and safety-focused organisations, allowing professionals to combine coaching expertise with lifesaving skills.

ICTQual AB Level 3 Award in National Surf Coach Lifesaving (NSCL) is 3 days training program. As this Training program have mandatory assessment which will be conducted through Approved Training Centers.

ICTQual AB allows to offer Level 3 Award in National Surf Coach Lifesaving (NSCL) in various formats, including online, in-person, or a combination of both. Participants can choose the format that best fits their schedule and learning preferences. But final decision is made by ATC.

Yes, ICTQual AB Level 3 Award in National Surf Coach Lifesaving (NSCL) consists of 4 mandatory assessments . These assessments are designed to evaluate participants’ comprehension of course material and their capacity to apply concepts in practical situations.