lead, learn
& belong

• Overview

  Come and meet the dedicated team behind our Youth Program. You’ll find experienced volunteers who bring passion and expertise to everything we do. If you have questions about any aspect of the Youth program, reach out to the Youth team or contact the office on email or phone 

• How We Communicate

  We stay connected through emails and encourage youth members to use their own email address if they have one, helping them take ownership of their involvement. Of course, we want parents connected too, so please ensure we have your email address as well.

• Sunday Youth Activities

  Sunday is when the whole club comes together. Youth activities kick off at 8:15am with a Club Meeting in the Courtyard, followed by the Club Swim. We encourage all Youth members to join the Club Swim, which offers different course lengths to suit various abilities and preferences. After the swim, we run planned activities designed to build fitness, surf and beach skills while keeping things fun. Each Sunday brings something different – Youth Relays, Champion Lifesaver competitions, Amazing Race challenges, SurfCom visits, and our Wellness Day are just some examples.

• Registrations

  All members from last season need to register now for the new season. You must be a registered member to attend any club activities including training sessions, courses and Sunday morning programs. For more information, see How to Join.

• Education

  Youth members have access to numerous training opportunities. The first qualification most pursue is the Surf Rescue Certificate (SRC), which is open to anyone but designed primarily for Under 14s and Under 15s new to surf life saving. Under 17s can progress to the Bronze Medallion course, which builds on SRC skills – you must be 15 to sit the exam. SLSWA also runs First Aid, Advanced Resuscitation Training Course (ARTC) and Silver Medallion courses throughout the season.

  For detailed course information and registration visit Education.

  At the start of each season, we hold requalification days for members renewing their SRC, Bronze Medallion and ARTC credentials. Check our Calendar or weekly newsletter for dates. Haven’t signed up for our newsletters yet? Sign up here
  

• Youth Patrols

  Patrols begin in October each season. Find your patrol allocation and roster here.

  If you can’t make your scheduled patrol, you must arrange a proxy. The City Patrol Proxies Facebook group exists to help with this.

  Questions about patrols? Email our Patrol Officer, Nat Speer

• Training

  The club provides extensive training opportunities across beach running, surf sports, IRB Operations, R&R, First Aid, Pool Series and Surf Boats. View the complete training schedule for all levels on our Surf Sports page or the Club Calendar.

• Youth Leaders Program

  The Youth Leaders Program (YLP) complements SLSWA’s Youth Program by giving members a way to formally record their experiences and service while receiving recognition. The program has three levels – Bronze, Silver and Gold – each with specific requirements covering various surf life saving roles. By creating well-rounded members with broad experience across multiple disciplines, the YLP ensures surf life saving offers lifelong participation pathways for everyone. Learn more here.

YOUTH FAQs

• What age groups does the Youth program cover?

  The Youth program serves members in Under 14 to Under 17 age groups, with age determined as of October 1st each season:

  • Under 14: 13 years old (as of 1st October)
  • Under 15: 14 years old
  • Under 16: 15 years old
  • Under 17: 16 years old

  The program provides a smooth transition from Nippers and prepares members for senior surf lifesaving activities.

• What qualifications can Youth members achieve?

  Youth members can work toward several important qualifications:

  Surf Rescue Certificate (SRC) is available for Under 14 members and those new to surf life saving, focusing on basic rescue techniques, surf awareness and radio operations.

  Bronze Medallion is available for members 15 and older, offering comprehensive training in advanced rescue techniques, patrolling skills and first aid.

  Additional courses including First Aid, Advanced Resuscitation (ARTC), IRB Crew and various officiating certifications are available throughout the season.

  For more information – see Education

• How do Youth members get involved in patrols?

  Youth members with appropriate qualifications can participate in beach patrols starting in October each season.

  Patrol requirements: You must hold a current SRC or Bronze Medallion qualification, complete the annual proficiency assessment, attend patrol briefings and debriefings, and wear appropriate patrol uniform.

  Finding your patrol: Patrol allocations and rosters are available here. If you can’t make your scheduled patrol, arrange a proxy through the City Patrol Proxies Facebook group.

• What training opportunities are available?

  The club offers comprehensive training programs throughout the season. Regular training sessions cover Beach Running and Sprint Training, Surf Sports specific training including Boards, Skis and Swimming, IRB and Rescue Training, plus First Aid and Resuscitation practice.

  Competition preparation includes specialised training for carnivals and championships with technique development, fitness conditioning and race strategy. Pool Series provides winter pool training to maintain fitness and skills during the off-season.

  See more information on our training programs here.

• Are there social activities for Youth members?

  Absolutely! The Youth program includes various social activities throughout the season including Sunday social sessions after training, Youth camps and development programs, social events and team-building activities, inter-club social competitions, and end-of-season awards and celebrations.

  These activities help build strong friendships and create a supportive community environment.

• Do I need to purchase a Board?

  City of Perth SLSC recommends purchasing a board for youth members who wish to participate in board paddling activities and competitions.

  For Under 14 – Under 17 competitors, SLSA approved fibreglass boards are recommended. Maximum length is 2.0m for competition boards. Many members purchase second-hand boards which can be a cost-effective option.

  The club maintains a fleet of training boards that members can use during scheduled training sessions. While the club has some boards available for training, having your own board allows for more consistent practice and skill development. For regular competitors, investing in personal equipment is encouraged.

  The program requires a bond and hire fee, with all hire fees reinvested into new equipment to maintain quality standards.