National Pool Lifeguard Qualification

Become an RLSS Lifeguard!

2025 Lifeguard courses available now!

NPLQ (National Pool Lifeguard Qualification)

National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) is the leading course for the gateway into the leisure industry. Sandford Parks Lido provides these courses throughout the 2023 season. 

 The National Pool Lifeguard Qualification course is a minimum of 36 hours, followed by a practical assessment on swimming pool theory, water safety and how to spot potential hazards. The course will teach you the practical skills of lifeguarding, such as water rescue, casualty recovery, CPR and first aid.

Course Requirements 

  • All applicants need to be over 16 yrs old on the day of assessment
  • Jump / dive into deep water
  • Swim 50 metres in less than 60 seconds
  • Swim 100 metres continuously on front and back in deep water
  • Tread water for 30 seconds
  • Surface dive to the floor of the pool
  • Climb out unaided without ladder / steps and where the pool design permits
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FAQ's

  • Is there parking available on site?

    We have a large car park suitable for over 150 cars which sits directly outside of the Lido. Parking fees start at £2.10 Both coins and cards are accepted and you can also pay by phone. It’s a great location if you are using the hospital, local parks or walking into Cheltenham Town Centre.

    Where possible, we encourage that you walk or cycle to the Lido. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

     

  • Do you have a refund policy if I am unable to use the pool?

    Refunds are not permitted on swim entry tickets. You will be able to transfer your swim to an alternative day or time if  you have given 24 hours notice.

    If you need assistance please email admin@sandfordparkslido.org.uk

  • Can children be left without an adult on site?

    We are committed to working with parents to create a safe environment for children.

    All children under the age of 8 should always be accompanied by a guardian aged 16 years or over, this person may be responsible for up to two children. Guardians must maintain constant supervision particularly in the water and changing rooms. We advise that children under the age of 5 should be supervised on a one-to-one basis.

    Parents have a specific responsibility for the safety of their own children, this cannot be abdicated to lifeguards. The role of the lifeguard is to maintain a safe and healthy environment for all swimmers.

  • How are queues managed on busy hot days?

    We have four queues available;

    1. One season ticket holders, who have booked,
    2. One for paying customers who have booked,
    3. One for Season ticket holders who have not booked
    4. One for paying customers who have not booked

    We allow all those who have booked onto site first and then we will allow entry to others customers who have not booked onto site.

    If we have hit site capacity, we will move to a 1-out-1-in scenario.

    *Please note Season Ticket holders who have not booked will get priority entry*

     

  • How much does it cost to swim?

    Adult:£7.50
    Concession:£5.10
    Family of 2: £8.20
    Family of 3: £14.30
    Family of 4: £16.30

    *Concessions include; Over 65s, registered disabled, unemployed/low income, children and students

  • How much are season Tickets?

    Single Adult -£190

    Joint ST – £330

    Concession* – £120

    Family of 3 – £340

    Family of 4 – £351

    *Concessions include; over 65s, registered disabled, unemployed/low income, children aged 5-17 in full time education and students.

  • How big is the pool?

    The main pool is 50m x 27.35m and has a depth of 1m in the shallow end and 1.75-2.75 in the deep end

    The children’s pool is 15.9m x 7.51m and has a depth of 0.5m in the shallow end and 0.8m in the deep end.

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Curious about cold water swimming? 👀❄️

Dive into a new experience this winter! 

Join our introductory cold water session with @glowswimcoach at Sandford Parks Lido. She’ll guide you through your first dip, helping you build confidence and enjoy winter swimming safely while boosting your wellbeing.

🌊 What’s included:

- Understanding the risks (cold shock, hypothermia) and how to stay safe
- Unlocking the benefits of cold water: happiness hormones, stress relief, better immunity, and more!
- Busting myths: why “longer isn’t better” and other essential truths
- Kit tips: what you actually need (and what you don’t)
Guided entry into the water, with plenty of support
- Debrief and advise for your next steps

🌟 Why try it?

• A surge of endorphins and feel-good vibes.
• Soak up nature’s beauty with blue/green therapy.
•Join a warm, inclusive community.
• Boost resilience, immunity, and manage stress better.
• Step out of your comfort zone and into the water this winter! 

🧊 Book your spot today and discover the joy of cold water swimming at the Lido 👏🏻

#sandfordparkslido #coldwaterswimming #winterwellbeing #bluemind
Just a sprinkle ❄️

We woke up to a little snowy surprise this morning, and it couldn’t look more serene…

Who else loves the dusting of snow? 🌨️

#snowymorning #cheltenham #lidoviews #swimmingpool #wintervibes #snow #snowday #sandfordparkslido #thelido

Lido Car Park is Closed

Please note the car park is now closed until spring 2025 for our sustainability development.