Aquatic therapy plays a vital role in rehabilitation and therapeutic care, particularly for individuals with mobility challenges, long-term conditions, and post-operative recovery needs. Ensuring the safety of participants in hydrotherapy and therapy pool environments requires a specific set of rescue skills. The QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Aquatic Therapy Pool Rescue (ATPR) provides professionals with the specialist training needed to manage emergency situations effectively in clinical and therapeutic aquatic settings.
This qualification is designed to meet the needs of healthcare professionals, aquatic therapists, and support staff who are responsible for maintaining a safe environment within therapy pools.
The Aquatic Therapy Pool Rescue (ATPR) diploma is a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification that focuses on essential rescue techniques, casualty management, and risk prevention strategies tailored specifically to hydrotherapy environments. Unlike general lifeguarding or pool safety certifications, the ATPR diploma addresses the unique safety concerns associated with supporting vulnerable individuals, including those with physical, cognitive, or medical conditions.
This qualification ensures that individuals working in aquatic therapy settings can respond confidently and competently in emergency scenarios, while also contributing to the overall safety culture of clinical pool facilities.
The ATPR diploma is delivered through approved training centres and combines classroom-based learning with practical, in-pool instruction. Assessment is carried out through observation, simulated rescue scenarios, and written tasks.
Learners must be at least 18 years old, possess a basic educational background (ideally Level 2), and demonstrate English language proficiency sufficient to understand technical terminology and safety procedures. Previous experience in health, therapy, or aquatic environments is helpful but not essential.
The QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Aquatic Therapy Pool Rescue (ATPR) is a focused and highly relevant qualification for professionals working in water-based therapy. By equipping candidates with essential rescue and safety skills specific to clinical pool settings, this diploma supports high standards of care, compliance, and professional practice. It is a valuable investment for individuals and organisations committed to the wellbeing of service users in therapeutic aquatic environments.
Course Contents of QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Aquatic Therapy Pool Rescue (ATPR):
The QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Aquatic Therapy Pool Rescue (ATPR), offers 60 Credits, requiring a Total Qualification Time (TQT) of 300 hours, including 210 Guided Learning Hours (GLH).
| Unit Ref# | Unit Title | Credit | GLH | TQT |
| QC26009-1 | Principles of Aquatic Therapy and Rescue in Clinical Pool Settings | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC26009-2 | Safe Rescue Techniques in Aquatic Therapy Environments | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC26009-3 | Medical Emergency Response and Casualty Management in Therapy Pools | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC26009-4 | Risk Management and Safety Protocols in Hydrotherapy Facilities | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC26009-5 | Communication and Collaborative Working in Multidisciplinary Rescue Settings | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC26009-6 | Legal, Ethical and Professional Practice in Aquatic Therapy Pool Rescue | 10 | 35 | 50 |
Entry Requirements for the QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Aquatic Therapy Pool Rescue (ATPR):
To enroll in the QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Aquatic Therapy Pool Rescue (ATPR), following are requirement:
Minimum Age
- Learners must be at least 18 years of age at the time of enrolment.
- This reflects the level of responsibility required when working in clinical and therapeutic aquatic environments, often involving vulnerable individuals.
Educational Background
- A minimum of a Level 2 qualification (e.g. GCSEs or equivalent) is recommended.
- A background in healthcare, physiotherapy, sports therapy, aquatic therapy, or related fields is advantageous but not mandatory.
Work Experience (Recommended)
- While prior experience in aquatic therapy, hydrotherapy, swimming instruction, or first aid/emergency response is beneficial, it is not compulsory.
- Candidates should ideally have basic water competence and confidence in pool environments.
- Employers may require candidates to have relevant manual handling or health and safety training, especially when working with individuals with physical or medical needs.
Language Proficiency
- Learners must have sufficient proficiency in English to understand and apply theoretical concepts, follow safety procedures, and communicate effectively in emergency situations.
- A minimum standard equivalent to CEFR Level B2 or an IELTS score of 5.5 is recommended.
- Language support or an internal assessment may be offered by training providers to ensure suitability.
Learning Outcomes of QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Aquatic Therapy Pool Rescue (ATPR):
Principles of Aquatic Therapy and Rescue in Clinical Pool Settings
- Understand the purpose and application of aquatic therapy in clinical and rehabilitation environments
- Identify the characteristics and needs of vulnerable users in therapy pools
- Recognise the specific risks associated with aquatic therapy delivery
- Describe the responsibilities of staff involved in aquatic therapy pool rescue
Safe Rescue Techniques in Aquatic Therapy Environments
- Demonstrate appropriate rescue techniques for assisted or immobile pool users
- Apply safe manual handling principles during water-based rescue scenarios
- Select and use rescue equipment suited to therapy pool environments
- Respond to a range of simulated incidents with sensitivity and control
Medical Emergency Response and Casualty Management in Therapy Pools
- Identify signs and symptoms of common medical emergencies in aquatic therapy settings
- Perform basic life support procedures appropriate to therapy pool scenarios
- Manage casualties with mobility, respiratory, or neurological conditions during incidents
- Coordinate with emergency responders and clinical teams during and after an incident
Risk Management and Safety Protocols in Hydrotherapy Facilities
- Conduct routine risk assessments specific to hydrotherapy and rehabilitation pools
- Implement and follow emergency action plans and safety protocols
- Monitor the environment to reduce risks before and during therapy sessions
- Maintain accurate safety records in compliance with facility and regulatory standards
Communication and Collaborative Working in Multidisciplinary Rescue Settings
- Communicate clearly and effectively with therapy users, colleagues, and clinical staff
- Work collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams during emergency situations
- Understand the importance of calm, concise communication during incidents
- Apply interpersonal skills to support patients and carers under distress
Legal, Ethical and Professional Practice in Aquatic Therapy Pool Rescue
- Understand the legal responsibilities of rescue personnel in clinical pool settings
- Apply ethical principles when supporting individuals with complex needs
- Maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality at all times
- Recognise safeguarding duties and comply with relevant care standards and legislation
The Level 3 Diploma in Aquatic Therapy Pool Rescue (ATPR) is specifically designed for professionals working in or preparing to work within clinical, therapeutic, or rehabilitative aquatic environments. It is ideal for individuals who are responsible for the safety and support of patients, clients, or service users during aquatic therapy sessions.
This course is suitable for:
- Aquatic therapists and hydrotherapy practitioners delivering water-based rehabilitation
- Physiotherapists and occupational therapists working in therapy pools
- Healthcare assistants, rehabilitation staff, and nursing support workers operating in aquatic settings
- Lifeguards and pool safety staff transitioning into clinical or therapy pool roles
- Staff working in hospitals, specialist rehabilitation centres, nursing homes, or special educational needs (SEN) schools with hydrotherapy facilities
- Organisations seeking to meet clinical governance and safety standards in aquatic therapy
This qualification is ideal for those who require a recognised rescue certification tailored to vulnerable or assisted users, where standard lifeguard qualifications may not address the specific risks or needs of clinical pool environments. It ensures that staff are equipped with both the technical and professional competencies necessary to respond effectively in a sensitive and controlled manner.