Lifeguard & Swim Instructor Leadership

The City of Cambridge Leadership Path breaks down the courses and training needed to become a lifesaver. The program is offered to those at least 13 years old, through the Lifesaving Society at our pool facilities. 

Register online by visiting the Cambridge Online Registration for Activities & Leisure (CORAL) site  or in person at any recreation centre. 

Complete Lifesaving Course 

As part of our efforts to increase staffing caused by the national shortage and address our greatest need to fill day shifts, we are offering free certifications to become a lifeguard and swim instructor.

The Complete Lifesaving Course registration is currently full.

We appreciate your interest and are committed to continuing to support the certification of lifeguards and swim instructors in our city. Please check back for updates on future initiatives. 

 

How to participate

  1. Get started by registering below for an initial fit and swim assessment.
  2. Upon successfully completing the assessment, you will be enrolled into 19 weeks of daytime certification courses free of charge.
  3. Priority recruitment will be provided to you at the end of successful completion of the course.
  4. Once hired, you will be asked to work with the City of Cambridge for one year and a minimum of six hours a week of day time shifts.

Swim assessments

Two assessments will be held at John Dolson Pool from 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. 

Participants will be asked to demonstrate the following:

  • stroke evaluation (front crawl, back crawl, breaststroke and lifesaving kicks)
  • endurance swim (timed 400 metre swim)
  • object recovery (8 foot depth)
Certification courses

The 'Complete Lifesaving Course' will be led through the Lifesaving Society. Classes will run 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. weekly each Wednesday from November 2, 2022 until March 30, 2023, with holiday breaks December 28, January 4 and March 15. 

The following courses will be included:

FAQ

Do I need to be a resident of Cambridge to participate?
You do not.
Is there an age requirement to participate?
Yes, you must be at least 16 years old.
Can students apply?

Anyone over the age of 16 who is an avid swimmer with daytime availability is encouraged to register for the swim assessment to be admitted into the course.

The course is structured to fast-track staff into positions, with a focus on day shifts as they are in the greatest need.

Those interested will need to consider their availability to participate in classes during the day and to meet a one-year commitment following certification, to work with the City of Cambridge for six hours of day shifts a week. 
If I miss the initial swim assessment sessions Oct. 19 or 26, will there be another opportunity to participate?
We are committed to continue recruitment and certification of lifeguards and swim instructors for the city.  Please check back for updates on future initiatives.
What if I am not successful in the skills assessment?
We would encourage you to continue developing your skills and try again at a later date.
How long does it take to complete the courses?
It's a 19-week course commitment, hosted during the day Monday to Friday.
What if I do not successfully complete the courses?
We would encourage you to continue developing your skills and try again at a later date.
What if I need to drop out in the middle of the course for unforeseen circumstances?
You may be able to obtain the certifications that have been completed. Due to the 100% attendance policy you will not be able to rejoin the program.
In completing the courses, am I guaranteed a job with the City of Cambridge?
Priority recruitment will be provided at the end of successful completion of the course.
What are my obligations to the City of Cambridge if I complete the course for free?
All participants would be committed to working with the City of Cambridge for one year. You would be required to work a minimum of six hours a week.
How long do the certifications last before I need to recertify?
Award holders are encouraged to maintain up-to-date skills and ability through recertification. Award holders may recertify Lifesaving Society awards at any time regardless of the certification date of the original award. LSS defines a 2-year (24 month) currency period for lifeguard or instructor certifications. 
Can I join the course if I have partial certifications?
It's possible to build on your existing certifications. Please reach out to discuss specifics and what is possible. You will be required to participate in the the course that is being hosted during the day, Monday to Friday. Contact Amy Ross at rossa@cambridge.ca.
Do courses run over Christmas and March Break?
No. We will observe the holidays and continue again following. Specific course dates will be provided following the successful swim assessment.  

We are hiring Lifeguard & Swim Instructors to start immediately! 

Apply Now