Nippers FAQ
How old does my child have to be to join?
A child may join nippers as soon as they turn five years of age.
A child who reaches five years of age after 30 September may join nippers at that time; however, this child will be required to stay in the U6 nippers age group again the following season.
What age group will my child be in?
The age group that your child will be in is determined by the age they are as at the 30th September the year you are joining.
For example, if your child was 11 on the 30th September (turning 12 on the 5th Oct) they will be in the Under 12 age group (even though they are 12).
For my child to join, does a parent/caregiver need to be a member?
Yes at Garie we need parents to be involved and as such will be required to be a insured member of SLSA, our expectations are at least 1 parent/ caregiver are a financial member of the club
Does my child have to be able to swim to join?
Your child will need to complete a Preliminary Skills Assessment including a swim and a float which clubs will conduct either at the beach on the day
This is carried out before participating in any junior activity to assess their swimming and self-survival ability in the water.
This will determine whether they can progress to the water based junior activities under normal water safety supervision or they will require closer supervision.
Is this a learn to swim program?
Surf Life Saving does not provide specific learn to swim training or stroke correction. This is strongly encouraged to be taken up externally.
However, your child will benefit enormously and increase their confidence through exposure to water-based activities including swimming and board paddling.
What do i need to bring to Nippers
Swimmers, long sleeve t-shirt or rash vest, a sun hat, towel, water, snack and sunscreen.
Want to purchase club apparell? speak to your club for prices and availability.
What water safety measures are in place for nippers?
A Water Safety Supervisor (WSS) is appointed for all water-based activities.
The WSS conducts a risk assessment at the start of each session, and monitors conditions throughout – activities are adapted and can be cancelled in hazardous situations.
Water Safety Personnel (WSP) are qualified and proficient lifesavers who provide surveillance and assistance in the water if required with lifesaving equipment.
You will see them on the beach in their orange high-visibility cap and rash shirt stating ‘Water Safety’ on the front and back for easy identification.
What are the end of season Junior Awards?
Each age group has an award which is achieved by participation throughout the season.
The award celebrates the new skills and knowledge which have been learnt.
Your child will need to attend and participate in all the compulsory sessions to attain the award.
Award certificates may be emailed to you by your club or printed and presented at the end of season.
What and who are Age Managers?
An Age Manager is a member of the club who takes responsibility for the instruction of an age group throughout the season.
All Age Managers are trained and hold a current Working with Children Checks (WWCC) as required in line with state legislation.
If you are interested in helping with the delivery of Nippers and becoming an Age Manager or (or maybe even becoming a surf lifesaver yourself!), speak to your club – we love our parents getting involved!