National Lifeguard Certification Camps
National Lifeguard training builds on the fundamental skills taught in the Bronze Medallion and Cross programs and equips candidates with the practical skills and knowledge required of lifeguards. This course is designed for lifesavers who want to seek employment in Lifeguarding locally or across Canada.
2026 Aquatic Summer Camp Registration Opens
January 15, 2026 @ 9am
National Lifeguard – Pool Option
- Designed to develop the fundamental values, judgment, knowledge, skills and fitness required by lifeguards
- Emphasizes the lifeguarding skills, principles and practices, and the decision-making processes that will assist candidates in providing effective safety supervision in swimming pool environments.
An overview of the program can be found on the Lifesaving Society website.
Required
- Lifesaving ALERT Manual (purchased during registration)
- Whistle
- Pocket mask (optional)
Notice (1):
The manual fee will be charged automatically when you register online. Manuals will be issued at the first session.
If you would like to opt out of purchasing a manual because you already have one, you must call (613) 520-4480 or register in-person at the Welcome Centre Desk in Alumni Hall.
Notice (2):
Lifesaving Society FOX 40 whistles with a lanyard ($12) are available for purchase in person at the Welcome Center Desk – while supplies last!
Prerequisites
- Minimum 15 years of age
- Bronze Cross certification and Lifesaving Society Standard First Aid (need not be current) or SFA from one of these approved agencies.
Please Note:
All candidates must attend the final practical Exam which will be held on the final day of the camp. No alternative exam date or time is available.
What to Bring
- At least (1) swim suit
- Due to the physical nature of these courses, it’s recommended that candidates wear a one-piece bathing suit or well-fitting swim trunks.
- A couple of towels
- It’s beneficial to have more than (1) towel in order to stay warm and dry in-between swims.
- Swim Goggles (strongly recommended)
- Borrowing goggles from our ‘lost & found’ is not recommended for health & safety reasons.
- A notebook and a pen or pencil
- Manuals
- The ALERT: Lifeguarding in Action manual (required purchase during registration, issued to candidates during the first day of camp).
- A whistle for emergency situations.
Lifesaving Society Verification of Identity Policy
Candidates will be required to provide their Instructor/Examiner proof of government-issued ID with a photo, date of birth and name for all original vocational courses and recertification, effective January 1, 2026. For additional information please visit their website.
Up-Coming Program Offerings
Holiday Camp 25-26
| Camp Dates & Times | Cost |
|---|---|
| Sunday(s) December 28 & January 4 12:30am – 4:30pm AND Monday – Saturday, December 29 – January 3 8:30am – 4:30pm | $394 |
There is no camp on January 1, 2026.
Lunch is NOT included in our Holiday Camps.
March Break Camp 2026
| Camp Dates & Times | Cost |
|---|---|
| March 16 – March 21 8:30am – 4:45pm | $494.01 |
A cafeteria lunch is INCLUDED in camp fees.
Please make us aware of any dietary restrictions or food allergies during the registration process.
Summer Camp 2026
| Camp Dates & Times | Cost |
|---|---|
| Option #1: June 20, 21, 25 – 28 8:30am – 4:45pm | $486 |
| Option #2: July 19 – 24 8:30am – 4:45pm | $467 |
| Option #3: August 17 – 21 AND August 24 – 28 8:30am – 1:00pm OR 12:00 – 4:30pm | $394 *lunch NOT included |
A cafeteria lunch is INCLUDED in camp fees for option #1 & 2.
Please make us aware of any dietary restrictions or food allergies during the registration process.
Early/Late supervision is NOT available for participants of this camp.
Includes
- National Lifeguard – Pool Option Certification
- Alert Manual (add on fee)
Location
- Carleton Pool – Alumni Hall
- Drop-Off – Camper should meet their instructor on deck for a 8:30am start
- Pick up
- Holiday Camp > Campers will be dismissed at 4:30pm from the pool deck or classroom
- March Break and Summer Camp > Campers will be dismissed at 4:45pm from the pool deck or classroom
Important Notes
- Note: Lot 5 parking is not Free
- Registration is required in advance and space is limited.
- Lockers are available for use (day use only).
- We recommend that candidates bring clothes/valuables etc. to the pool-deck in a gym bag or back-pack for safe-keeping.
- Parents/spectators are not permitted to remain on the pool deck during the camp. However, the pool gallery on the 3rd floor will be open.
Our cafeteria has a selection of vegetarian, gluten free and Halal food options.
Applicable during March Break and Summer Camps
Participants are encouraged to bring SNACKS and will be given breaks throughout the day to grab food/water.
Please keep in mind that Carleton Pool is a nut-free zone
Holiday Camp; March Break Camps open for registration on Wednesday, November 5 @ 9:00am.
Other National Lifeguard Programs
National Lifeguard Certification Course