Aquatic Supervisor Training

Large aquatic centers, camps and schools have trained supervisors who oversee the entire program. While lifeguards and instructors must have training, a supervisor has a host of skills that are needed to ensure that a facility runs smoothly and safely.

  1. Prerequisites

    • Aquatic supervisors generally come from within the ranks of the swimming community. They can start out as lifeguards, swim instructors or swim coaches. Candidates for supervisor training may have been in charge of lifeguards or swim instructors. They often have many hundreds of hours of guarding or teaching experience under their belts.

      Each individual center can offer its own supervisor training. Many will also go on to complete the Certified Pool Operator certification, which teaches how to deal with the actual swimming pool operation.

    Training

    • Supervisory skills are discussed during training. Not only will the aquatic supervisor be in charge of the lifeguards and instructors, but she will manage the front desk, maintenance crew and deal with swim teams. She will also learn how to manage the facility that can include pools, water slides, permanent and in-water toys, therapy facilities, locker rooms and even a fitness room.

      The most important topics covered in the training will be how to manage risk and an aquatic emergency

    Other skills

    • The aquatic supervisor will be trained in how to provide quality service to the customers. He will also learn how to foster teamwork, motivate the staff and how to deal with discipline. Leadership and safety and the two most important topics in training to be an aquatic supervisor and are stressed in every portion of the training.