Junior lifesavers are needed at Knutsford Leisure Centre for the October Half-term. The Rookie Lifeguard scheme is being run during the week and young people aged 8-12 have the chance to learn valuable water skills that could save their own life or the lives of others, whilst enjoying fun sessions and receiving recognition for their achievements.

The Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK) has teamed up with Macclesfield Borough Council to offer the Rookie Lifeguard initiative from Monday 27-Wednesday 29 October, 9-11, to give youngsters essential water skills. Around 75 people from the UK drown abroad each year and experts say many of these deaths could be prevented if more people were equipped with basic water safety and lifesaving skills. In the UK drowning is the third most common cause of accidental death among the under 16s, with at least 60 children losing their lives every year.

Rookie Lifeguards will work for bronze, silver and gold awards, with three awards at each level as well as exciting additional awards available. Neil Ruff, activities manager at  Knutsford Leisure Centre, says: "The programme is action-packed with plenty of opportunity to earn a number of badges through completing lifesaving tasks. Rookie lifeguards will develop skills and experience in water safety, rescue, resuscitation and lifesaving sports skills."

The RLSS UK is working in partnership with the Amateur Swimming Association (ASA) on the National Plan for Teaching Swimming, which aims to bring all swimming lessons up to a higher standard. Young Rookies can also complete all of the Water Safety requirements laid down in the National Curriculum's Key Stage 2 by completing the Rookie Lifeguard Water Safety Award.

Rookie allows fledgling swimmers the opportunity to progress at their own speed as they need to become confident within the water. In addition,  the RLSS UK has developed awards for those not progressing so quickly or those with a disability.

To learn more about Rookie Lifeguard at Knutsford Leisure Centre, call 01565 653321. The cost of the course is £25.80. Please also visit the Rookie website which is full of lifesaving tips and information: www.lifesavers.org.uk/rookie