Step 4

Bronze Medal Awards

Begin leadership training with nationally recognized Lifesaving Society courses:

  • Bronze Star (recommended but not required)
  • Bronze Medallion (requires 13+ years or Bronze Star)
  • Bronze Cross (prerequisite for NL)


Bronze Star: Preferred successful completion of Swim Patrol Star; 10 years or older, swim 400 m; eggbeater; surface dives; head up swimming.

Stroke Improvement: Can swim 25 m continuously and would like to focus on improving their stroke's technique and endurance.

Lifesaving Sport Fundamentals: Can swim 25 m continuously and is looking for a mental and physical challenge with introduction to lifesaving rescue and sport. Excellent preparation to become a Lifeguard.


Bronze Medallion

The lifesaving Society's Bronze Medallion challenges the candidate both mentally and physically. Judgement, knowledge, skill, and fitness - the four components of water rescue - form the basis of Bronze Medallion training. Candidates acquire the assessment and problem-solving skills needed to make good decisions in, on and around the water. Stoke mechanics, endurance, and rescue of others are included. Bronze Medallion is a prerequisite for assistant lifeguard training in the Lifesaving Society's Bronze Cross. Includes a 400 m timed swim within 12 minutes.

Course is split between classroom learning, in water practice and assessment and some take home assignments.

Prerequisites: Minimum 13 years of age (or older or Bronze Star certification).

Required: Canadian Lifesaving Manual, available at the Water Park Guest Services. Candidates receive Bronze Medallion medal, Bronze Medallion Award crest, certification card, CPR-A and AED with this course.



Bronze Cross

The Lifesaving Society's Bronze Cross begins the transition from lifesaving to lifeguarding and prepares candidates for responsibilities as assistant lifeguards. Candidates strengthen and expand their lifesaving skills and begin to apply the principles and techniques of active surveillance in aquatic facilities. Bronze Cross emphasizes the importance of teamwork and communication in preventing and responding to aquatic emergencies. Stroke mechanics and endurance are also included. Bronze Cross is a prerequisite for advanced training in the Lifesaving Society's National Lifeguard award (NLS) and leadership certification programs such as Lifesaving Instructor. Includes a 400 m timed swim within 11 minutes.

Prerequisite: Lifesaving Society Bronze Medallion (need not be current)

Required: Canadian Lifesaving Manual, whistle