SETTING
Online + Classroom/Pool Skills Session
- Combines the flexibility of online training with instructor-led sessions
- Convenient locations and times for in-person skills check with experienced instructors
DESCRIPTION
The American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor® (WSI™) Course trains instructor candidates how to teach courses and presentations in the American Red Cross Swimming and Water Safety program by developing their understanding of how to use the course materials, how to conduct training sessions and how to evaluate participants’ progress. Programs include Parent and Child Aquatics, Preschool Aquatics, Learn-to-Swim, Adult Swim, Private Lessons, Water Safety Courses and Water Safety Presentations.
LENGTH
Online: 6 hours, 45 minutes (varies)
In Person: 25 hours
INTENDED AUDIENCE
Instructor candidates may include, but are not limited to, lifeguards, head lifeguards, aquatic facility managers, camp counselors, swim team coaches, competitive swimmers, teachers and youth leaders. Instructor candidates may be taking an instructor training course to fulfill employment requirements, to complete requirements for a major area of study or certification, for professional growth or for personal satisfaction.
PREREQUISITES
Entry into the course is strictly limited to those who meet the prerequisites. Failure to have attained the appropriate skill level could pose a safety threat to themselves and to others in the class.
Participants must:
- Be at least 16 years old on or before the final scheduled session of the course.
- Demonstrate the ability to perform the following swimming skills:
- Swim the following strokes consistent with the Stroke Performance Charts, Level 4: Front Crawl – 25 yards; Back Crawl – 25 yards; Breaststroke – 25 yards; Elementary Backstroke – 25 yards; Sidestroke – 25 yards; Butterfly – 15 yards.
- Maintain position on back for 1 minute in deep water (floating or sculling).
- Tread water for 1 minute.
REQUIREMENTS
Participants must:
- Successfully complete the online session, including each lesson and assessments.
- Attend the in-person skills session and actively participate in all course activities, including assuming various roles during skill practices and assessment scenarios.
- Demonstrate instructor-level skill competency in all skills. This means being able to demonstrate all of the skill steps as they are written, in the correct order, and in accordance with the proficiency criteria to meet the objectives of the skill.
- Successfully complete the required practice teaching assignments.
- Pass the written exam with a minimum grade of 80%.
CERTIFICATION
Upon successful completion, participants will be issued a digital instructor certificate by email from the American Red Cross that is valid for 2 years.
To maintain certification, Water Safety Instructors® must affiliate with a Red Cross Learn-to-Swim facility, teach at least one eligible course of record in the Swimming and Water Safety program during their certification period, successfully complete an online recertification assessment prior to expiration, complete any applicable program updates.
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