After extensive development and piloting, STA is happy to announce the availability of the STA Award in Open Water Safety which is designed to train candidates in rescue techniques, CPR and first aid competencies in order to act as safety cover in an open water environment for competent swimmers.

The award is open to candidates 16 years of age and over who are competent open water swimmers (minimum 400m), the course of instruction is for a minimum of 22 hours and is tutor assessed (if the candidate is a current Emergency First Aid at Work, Pool Lifeguard, Pool Responder or Safety Award for Teachers holder this can be reduced to 16 hours).

The qualification contains the following units:

• First Aid Essentials
• Management of Illness and Injury in an aquatic environment
• Open Water Safety Rescue Skills

The qualification requires revalidation every 3 years to update knowledge and demonstrate understanding. Revalidation is granted after attending a short course, minimum of 8 contact hours during which time they are reassessed by the course tutor. It is recommended that refresher training is carried out at the beginning of every season; there are record sheets at the end of the candidate’s portfolio to record training.

STA lifesaving tutors with open water experience could be eligible to tutor this course. Contact STA to find out if you are eligible and to apply for this tutor status.