Aquatic therapy continues to grow in popularity across health, rehabilitation, and special education sectors, offering vital support for individuals with mobility challenges, long-term conditions, or recovery needs. Ensuring the safety of users in hydrotherapy pools is essential. The QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Aquatic Therapy Pool Rescue LIGHT (ATPR LIGHT) is a focused qualification designed for those working in controlled aquatic therapy settings, where a full lifeguard qualification may not be required but a fundamental understanding of rescue techniques is essential.
This course provides the practical skills and theoretical knowledge needed to respond confidently and appropriately to emergency situations in aquatic therapy environments.
The Aquatic Therapy Pool Rescue LIGHT qualification is a streamlined Level 3 diploma that covers essential safety, communication, and emergency response procedures in therapy pools. Unlike traditional pool lifeguarding courses, ATPR LIGHT is tailored to low-risk, supervised settings, such as hospital hydrotherapy suites, rehabilitation centres, special education schools, and care facilities.
The diploma is delivered through a blend of classroom theory and practical pool-based training. Learners are assessed through observation, practical demonstrations, and written or oral tasks relevant to real-life scenarios.
The total qualification includes 60 credits across six units, with 210 guided learning hours and a total qualification time of 300 hours.
The QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Aquatic Therapy Pool Rescue LIGHT (ATPR LIGHT) offers essential training for professionals working in therapeutic pool environments. Whether supporting physiotherapy sessions, assisting with rehabilitation programmes, or providing care in SEN settings, this course ensures staff are equipped with the knowledge and skills to act safely and responsibly. It’s a practical, targeted qualification that promotes a culture of care, competence, and preparedness across the aquatic therapy sector.
Course Contents of QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Swimming Pool Emergency Rescue:
The QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Swimming Pool Emergency Rescue, 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 |
| QC26011-1 | Principles of Swimming Pool Emergency Response | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC26011-2 | Practical Rescue Techniques in Swimming Pool Environments | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC26011-3 | Management of Medical Emergencies in Poolside Settings | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC26011-4 | Risk Assessment and Prevention Strategies in Pool Facilities | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC26011-5 | Communication, Team Leadership, and Coordination in Emergency Response | 10 | 35 | 50 |
| QC26011-6 | Legal, Ethical and Professional Responsibilities in Rescue Operations | 10 | 35 | 50 |
Entry Requirements for the QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Swimming Pool Emergency Rescue:
To enroll in the QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Swimming Pool Emergency Rescue, following are requirement:
Minimum Age
- Learners must be at least 18 years old at the time of enrolment.
- This ensures they have the maturity and responsibility required for roles involving public safety and emergency response.
Educational Background
- A minimum Level 2 qualification (such as GCSEs or equivalent) is recommended.
- While not mandatory, a background in health and safety, sports science, physical education, or leisure operations is considered beneficial.
Work Experience (Recommended)
- No formal prior experience is required; however:
- Candidates should have basic swimming competence and confidence in deep water.
- Previous involvement in lifeguarding, pool supervision, swim teaching, or first aid response is an advantage.
Language Proficiency
- Learners must possess sufficient English language skills to understand health and safety procedures, respond to emergencies, and complete assessments.
- It is recommended that learners have proficiency equivalent to CEFR Level B2 or an IELTS score of 5.5.
- Training centres may conduct a basic language or literacy assessment to confirm suitability.
Learning Outcomes of QualCert Level 3 Diploma in Swimming Pool Emergency Rescue:
Principles of Swimming Pool Emergency Response
- Understand the types and causes of emergencies that may occur in swimming pool environments
- Identify the roles and responsibilities of emergency personnel in aquatic settings
- Recognise key components of an effective emergency action plan
- Explain the importance of readiness, response time, and situational awareness
Practical Rescue Techniques in Swimming Pool Environments
- Demonstrate safe and effective rescue techniques for a variety of aquatic incidents
- Use rescue aids and equipment correctly in simulated emergency situations
- Apply appropriate entry, approach, and recovery methods in both shallow and deep water
- Respond to conscious and unconscious casualties using approved protocols
Management of Medical Emergencies in Poolside Settings
- Identify common medical conditions and injuries that may occur around swimming pools
- Perform appropriate first aid interventions for drowning, shock, and cardiac arrest
- Deliver basic life support (BLS) procedures including CPR and use of AED
- Manage casualties until emergency services or advanced care personnel arrive
Risk Assessment and Prevention Strategies in Pool Facilities
- Conduct basic risk assessments to identify and reduce potential hazards
- Implement proactive safety measures to prevent incidents in pool environments
- Monitor facility conditions, equipment, and user behaviour to ensure safety
- Maintain accurate records related to safety checks, incidents, and risk control
Communication, Team Leadership, and Coordination in Emergency Response
- Communicate clearly and assertively during emergency situations
- Work effectively as part of a rescue team under pressure
- Demonstrate leadership and delegation when coordinating emergency actions
- Reflect on communication techniques and team dynamics post-incident
Legal, Ethical and Professional Responsibilities in Rescue Operations
- Understand the legal obligations of emergency responders in aquatic environments
- Apply ethical principles in decision-making during rescue situations
- Maintain professional conduct, confidentiality, and safeguarding awareness
- Comply with health and safety legislation, organisational policies, and regulatory standards
The Level 3 Diploma in Swimming Pool Emergency Rescue is designed for individuals who have a duty of care in swimming pool environments and are responsible for ensuring the safety and wellbeing of swimmers during regular operations and emergency situations.
This course is suitable for:
- Poolside staff and supervisors in leisure centres, gyms, and aquatic facilities
- Lifeguards seeking formal recognition or advanced training in emergency response
- Swimming instructors and coaches who oversee regular aquatic sessions
- Recreation assistants and facility managers responsible for pool safety compliance
- Sports and leisure professionals working in hotels, schools, private clubs, or local authorities
- Individuals preparing for a career in water safety, leisure operations, or aquatic risk management
This qualification is ideal for those who require practical and theoretical training in managing emergency situations, performing pool rescues, administering first aid, and coordinating safety procedures in line with current legal and professional standards.
It provides a valuable progression route for those entering or advancing within the aquatic, fitness, or health and safety sectors.