The training process to become a Swimming Training Assistant
1. Prerequisites: First Aid Training, DRSA Bronze, and Goals
Prerequisites for the training assistant course include a first aid course and the DRSA Bronze. A training assistant must be at least 15 years old and have current first aid training. This lays the foundation for instructors to safely guide participants – even in areas where they will later work with children. The goal of the course is a clear qualification in swimming and lifesaving (lifesaving level 1) as a first step towards obtaining licenses.
2. Course & Further Training: Content, Methodology, Didactics
To become a swimming assistant, one must complete a special course of approximately 30 learning units. The training for swimming assistants includes both theoretical and practical components. Didactics, methodology, and communication are structured in such a way that practical instruction works, and all involved parties have a common understanding of the framework, examination, and standards. The path to becoming a training assistant allows for the early involvement of young people in swimming education – and creates a further training that aims at perfecting the role and providing solid support in the team.
The training for swimming assistants includes both theoretical and practical components.
2.1 Theory, Practice, and Self-Study
Participants in the swimming assistant training must complete self-study hours as part of the program. These self-study phases complement the practical work in swimming and lifesaving and help to deepen content in various areas so that instructors can later reliably guide others.
3. Tasks in Training: Supervision, Exercises, Badges
The main tasks of a training assistant include conducting simple exercises and explaining swimming techniques. A swimming assistant supervises smaller groups under supervision and teaches basic swimming techniques. A training assistant may conduct preliminary examinations, such as the Seahorse badge. Depending on the offer, helpers also provide support, ensuring that support in the course remains structured and all participants make progress.
4. Organization: Event, Location, Registration, Places
The event takes place at a defined location, e.g., Hamburg. Fixed procedures apply for registration; often, only limited places are available, and free places are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. The regional association provides information, appoints a leader for communication, and clarifies costs and the organizational framework. In some cases, a Red Cross introductory seminar is part of the preparation; furthermore, membership is helpful, or a member is given preferential consideration. Start times vary, e.g., 18:00.
5. Providers & Perspectives: DLRG, DRK, Wasserwacht, Instructor License
The training assistant courses are offered by DLRG and swimming associations; DRK and Wasserwacht are also involved depending on the region. The training programs for swimming assistants are offered at various locations. The training programs for swimming assistants have specific start and end dates. The training program for swimming assistants is a prerequisite for obtaining the swimming and rescue swimming instructor certificate. The assistant course is often the basis for further training to become a full instructor. This creates a clear perspective for everyone: from qualification as a training assistant through working with others to licenses as an instructor.
6. Further Links
First Aid Training for the DRSA Bronze. Lifesaving Level 1 ( Bronze Badge ) for the training assistant (DLRG/Swimming Associations) DRK & Wasserwacht Registration: Places available with costs in the regional association (Hamburg). Information and tips on the Silver Swimming Badge can be found here.
