Introduction
Chelmsford Swimming Club's dedicated life saving instructors have been recognised for their dedication with the Essex Branch Trophy for the highest number of life saving awards gained by a school, club or organisation in 2003. Sue Stewart, who runs the lifesaving section, is currently the President of the Essex branch of the Royal Life Saving Society (RLSS).
Two instructors have also received national recognition by the RLSS for their contribution to the society over many years service.
The section runs courses lasting from 12-15 weeks, which are run by qualified RLSS instructors, with an examination taken at the end of the course.
Participants need to be strong swimmers.
Course length and fees are variable, depending on the degree of difficulty.
Courses offered are:
- Life Saving 1,2 and 3 (Juniors)
- Bronze Medallion (13+)
- Award of Merit (14+)
- National Rescue Award for Swimming Teachers and Coaches
The Life Saving section is very busy at the moment, with 16 teachers and Club helpers taking their National Rescue Award for Swimming Teachers and Coaches. The exam will be on July 6th.
The next Course will be a Bronze Medallion Course, starting in October 2009, and taking about ten weeks. Duke of Edinburgh Award candidates can use this towards passing their test and it provides a foundation for those wishing to train as pool lifeguards. Prospective candidates should be 13+ and be able to swim 100 metres in under 3 minutes. Early application is advisable.
Life saving is held at Riverside Pool on Monday evenings between 8.00 - 9.30pm.
If you are interested in any of the activities undertaken by the Lifesaving section of Chelmsford Swimming Club and wish to find out more, please email lifesaving@chelmsfordswimmingclub.org.uk or phone Sue Stewart on 01245 233280.