The City of Niagara Falls is excited to offer a subsidized leadership opportunity to youth in the community who demonstrate a commitment to personal development and community service thanks to a generous donation from the McCall MacBain Foundation. Program participants will receive training and mentorship from City of Niagara Falls staff who will support them on their journey to become a fully certified Lifeguard and Swim Instructor. Program Participants will be provided with a bursary to cover 90% of their Lifeguard Training (a $1000 value). Upon successful completion of the certifications and the successful completion of the City's recruitment process, program applicants will have the opportunity to be employed with the City of Niagara Falls.
How to Participate
- Complete the application (Applications for Spring 2024 programs are due March 30th)
- Once your application is approved you will be registered for your first course and will pay 10% of the course fee. Aquatics Staff will reach out to you when this is completed.
- Upon completion of your training, you will be given priority recruitment for employment with the City of Niagara Falls Aquatics Team
Who can Apply?
- Youth that will be 15 years old by August 1, 2024
- Youth that are committed to personal development and community service
- Applicant is a Niagara Region resident and a Canadian citizen who is able to work in Canada
Preference will be given to candidates who express a need for financial assistance and have prior experience in aquatics and have expressed an interest in becoming a leader in this area.
Training Program
The City of Niagara Falls is an affiliate of the Lifesaving Society. To accomplish your lifeguard training you will complete the following programs:
- Bronze Medallion
- Bronze Cross
- Standard First Aid with CPR-C
- National Lifeguard
- Lifesaving Swim Instructor
Certification Course Dates offered on a session basis - current program dates are located here under Become a Lifeguard and Swim Instructor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be a resident of Niagara Falls to participate?
No, you just need to be a resident of the Niagara Region.
What if I do not successfully complete the courses?
If you do not pass the exam for your course, then you will have to retake the course. Any course participants who are retaking the course will be charged the exam fee.
What if I need to drop out in the middle of the course for unforeseen circumstances?
Speak with your class instructor and they will work with you on a plan to complete the courses during another session.
If I complete the courses, am I guaranteed a job with the City of Niagara Falls?
All candidates will be required to participate in the City's recruitment process. Successful program candidates will have priority over other applicants.
Can I join the course if I have partial certifications?
Yes - speak with our aquatics supervisor and they can work with you on a plan to complete your certifications.
Need more information
Contact Samantha Slofstra, Aquatics Supervisor at [email protected] or 905-356-7521 ext. 4139
