Children

The Children’s pathway introduces young people to the world of surf lifesaving through fun, safe and engaging activities designed to build confidence in and around the water.

Known as the Nipper Lifesaver Pathway, this programme is the first exciting step into lifesaving for children aged 7–13 years.

The Nipper Lifesaver Pathway

The Nipper pathway combines lifesaving skills, sport and personal development, giving children the opportunity to:

Friendship icon

Make friends and have fun

Become more confident in the ocean

Learn skills to stay safe at the beach

Communication icon

Develop teamwork and communication skills

Progress toward regional and national championships

How the Pathway Works

The Nipper Lifesaver pathway is made up of three progressive stages:

Bronze award
Nipper Lifesaver Bronze Award

Stage one:

  • Bronze Knowledge: I have started to become involved in lifesaving and have learned basic safety information that will keep me safe.
  • Bronze Ocean Star: I am safe in the water under supervision, I understand basic Life Saving principles and I am ready for competition action.
  • Nipper Lifesaver Bronze: I have developed my water confidence and basic lifesaving skills on the beach and in the water.
Silver Award
Nipper Lifesaver Silver Award

Stage two:

  • Silver Knowledge: I have started to develop my lifesaving knowledge and have learned the safety information that will keep me and others safe.
  • Silver Ocean Star: I can keep myself and others safe in the water, I understand life saving principles and I am ready for competition action.
  • Nipper Lifesaver Silver: I am becoming a confident beach and water Lifesaver, developing skills to protect myself and others.
Gold Award
Lifesaver Apprentice

Stage three:

  • Lifesaver Apprentice Knowledge: I know the basic principles of the role and responsibilities of a Beach Lifeguard.
  • Gold Ocean Star: I have developed my surf lifesaving skills and can competently keep myself and others safe in the water.
  • Lifesaver Apprentice: I have achieved the final stage in becoming a competent life saver and can keep myself and others safe in and around the ocean.

Recognising Progress

Children are encouraged and rewarded throughout their journey.

Progress is recognised through:

  • Knowledge Awards – learning key safety concepts
  • Ocean Star Awards and pin badges – recognising developing water skills
  • Achievement certificates – awarded when stages are completed

These milestones help children stay motivated and proud of their progress.

Nipper Log Book

Every child on the pathway receives a dedicated Nipper Log Book.

The log book:

  • Tracks progress through skills and activities
  • Helps trainers tailor sessions to ability
  • Provides clear goals for children to work towards
  • Supports consistent development across clubs

This structured approach helps children progress at their own pace while enjoying the learning process.

More Than Lifesaving

The Children’s pathway is about more than skills in the water. Many children continue their journey through Youth and Adult pathways, progressing into coaching, volunteering and even competitive sport.

Being part of a Surf Life Saving GB club helps young members:

Build confidence and resilience

Develop friendships and teamwork

Stay active and healthy

People surfing in the sea

Enjoy time outdoors and around the coast

“..community sport can play a major role in building confidence, team-work, supporting life skills for future generations and improving community cohesion” 

- from the Game On report to the House of Commons Culture, Media and Sport Committee

Start Your Journey

The best way to get started is by joining a local Surf Life Saving GB club.

Our clubs provide welcoming, supportive environments where children can learn, grow and have fun while developing lifesaving awareness.