A swimming instructor kneels in the shallow end of the pool. A swimming instructor kneels in the shallow end of the pool.

Make a splash in your community!

Open the door to employment and volunteer possibilities through YMCA Aquatic Certification programs.

Certification as a lifeguard or swimming instructor can lead to employment opportunities at the Y and elsewhere. You'll also develop leadership skills that can have a profound impact on your future success.

From Bronze Star through to the National Lifeguard course, the Y offers the programs necessary to become a trained lifeguard or swimming instructor, certified to work anywhere in Canada.

View programs and register  

Bronze Star & Basic First Aid
Prerequisite: None (recommended Star Program swimming ability)

Bronze Medallion & Emergency First Aid
Prerequisite: Minimum age 13Y or Bronze Star certification

Bronze Cross
Prerequisite: Bronze Medallion & Emergency First Aid (does not need to be current)

National Lifeguard & Standard First Aid
Prerequisite: Minimum age 16Y, Bronze Cross and Standard First Aid (does not need to be current)

Y Swim Instructors
Prerequisite: Minimum age 16Y, National Lifeguard & Standard First Aid