Can your child swim?Based on age and squad level, varying swim abilities are required. We recommend basic swim knowledge.
Swimming Ability
As a general guide, we expect our tamariki to have the following level of water confidence and ability at these ages. Please note, we cater to all and will work with you to find the best squad for your young person.
AGE AT OCTOBER 1ST 2024
6 year olds will require a dedicated adult with them during the entirety of the JSP programme.
6 - 8 years
Need to be able to swim (any stroke) for at least 15 metres with their feet off the bottom.
8 - 11 years
Three tiers:
Need to be able to swim (any stroke) for at least 50 metres in waist deep water
Required to swim a minimum of 100 metre (and ideally 200 metre) in deep water, in the ocean
Required to swim a minimum of 200 metres in deep water, in the ocean
11 - 13 years
Two tiers:
Confidently complete a 200 metre buoy swim
Confidently complete a 200 metre buoy swim under 4.5 mins
Level 1
Confidence in the water
Theory questions on keeping safe at the beach
Level 2
Bodysurfing and wading technique
Nine theory questions
Level 3
50m pool swim
Catching waves
Theory questions covering surf lifeguard roles as well as keeping safe at the beach
Level 4
200m pool swim
Correct technique for duck diving
Identifying rips and wave types
Level 5
Increased skill development for surf swimming
Theory questions cover setting up for patrol and parts of the inflatable rescue boat (IRB)
