"When you work in the hotel industry you develop skills and contacts that can open opportunities all over the world. There are loads of personal benefits too - discounts on weekend breaks free use of the leisure facilities and brilliant food..."

Lifeguard My name is Jonny and I worked for a 5* hotel in Leeds. I enjoy my job as it is varied with lots of different duties to do. One day it could be lifeguard duties the next day fitness instructing. I get to know a lot of people and generally have a good time. When you work in the hotel industry you get a lot of personal benefits, the companies offer cheap weekends, you can work abroad or around the country. There is a variety of in house training, which has improved my CV and keeps my qualifications up to date. I am keen to continue with education and plan to go to University to study Sport, Fitness, and Diet & Nutrition. I'd like to get promoted to a fitness leader and then move to a bigger more professional gym. Eventually one day I’d like to own my own personal training company.

A Day in the Life

I get up go to college on a Wednesday and a Friday morning. I go straight to work from there and start on the late shift. I then check my hand over diary and assessments for the day. I go on to check the men’s changing rooms and restock them. I then go on to cover poolside, reception or the gym.

I will get called up to reception from time to time for show rounds, my clients or a pool test. When my shift is finished I will go home to make a great start to my next day at the hall.

Background and Training

• CSE from school. GNVQ in leisure and tourism
• NVQ level 2 in sports and recreation
• NVQ level 3 in operational sports and recreation services
• CSLA coaching award
• PADI scuba diving
• Basket ball leader’s award
• First aid at work
• NP1Q national pool lifeguards qualification

Career Progression

I could remain a leisure assistant a long time or I could wait and apply for team leader positions if it ever came available or I could just finish my college course and apply elsewhere and go straight into a managers position.

Qualifications Needed

National lifesaving qualification needed combined with fitness instructor experience. Most lifeguards also have higher qualifications and a range of experience.

Qualities Needed

Practical common sense approach to the safety and well being of customers.