The City of Richmond has launched a new Instructor/Lifeguard Subsidy Program (ILSP) for youth and adult residents (13+ years) who are experiencing financial hardship and interested in a career or position as an Aquatics Instructor/Lifeguard. 

Instructor/Lifeguards are invaluable to community aquatics programs, and the skills learned such as leadership, teamwork and decision making are transferable to a variety of future careers. These positions not only contribute to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for pool patrons, but teach participants of all ages necessary life skills while offering excellent wages and a positive work environment.

The ILSP offers residents an opportunity to consider the rewarding opportunity of becoming an aquatics Instructor/Lifeguard rather than dismiss the idea for financial reasons. Becoming an Instructor/Lifeguard is challenging and requires approximately 165 training hours and successful completion of several courses in lifesaving, lifeguarding, first aid and swimming instruction. The program will subsidize eligible Richmond residents up to 90 per cent of $2,500 in course fees. Eligible courses offered year round include:

• Bronze Medallion and Cross
• Standard First Aid & CPR-C/AED
• National Lifeguard – Pool and Waterpark
• Swim for Life Instructor
• Lifesaving Instructor

Interested residents are encouraged to complete an ILSP application form that can be downloaded from the Lifeguarding page or picked up at any City of Richmond recreation facility, the Richmond Cultural Centre, the Public Works Yard or Richmond City Hall.

To learn more about joining the aquatics staff team, contact Donna Hand, Aquatic Supervisor, at aquatics@richmond.ca or 604-238-8017.