There are 2 types of proficiencies required that need to be passed by Nippers when joining Black Head Surf Life Saving Club. These proficiencies are as follows:

Preliminary Evaluation – This enables Nippers to participate in regular Sunday activities.

Competition Evaluation – This is required for Nippers to be able to compete at any carnivals.

These minimum requirements have been set in place by Surf Life Saving Australia in order to maintain safety and lifesaving standards.

 

AGE	PRELIMINARY EVALUATION	COMPETITION EVALUATION	SURF EDUCATION AWARDS
UNDER 6’s	From a standing position in waist deep water perform a front glide and recover to a secure position. Perform a back or front float holding a buoyant aid and recover to a secure position.	Do not compete	Surf Play 1
UNDER 7’s	From a standing position in waist deep water perform a front glide, kick for 3 meters and recover to a secure position. Perform a back or front float for a few seconds and recover to a secure position.	Do not compete	Surf Play 2
UNDER 8’s	25 meter swim (any stroke) 1 minute survival float	Nil (No water competition except for wade which takes place in waist deep water only)	Surf Aware 1
UNDER 9’s	25 meter swim (any stroke) 1 minute survival float	Minimum 150 meter open water swim (competition course as per competition manual)	Surf Aware 2
UNDER 10’s	25 meter swim (freestyle) 1 ½ minute survival float	Minimum 150 meter open water swim (competition course as per competition manual)	Surf Safe 1
UNDER 11’s	50 meter swim (freestyle) 2 minute survival float	Minimum 228 meter open water swim (competition course as per competition manual)	Surf Safe 2
UNDER 12’s	100 meter swim (freestyle) 2 minute survival float	Minimum 228 meter open water swim (competition course as per competition manual)	Surf Smart 1
UNDER 13’s	150 meter swim (freestyle) 3 minute survival float	Minimum 228 meter open water swim (competition course as per competition manual)	Surf Smart 2
UNDER 14’s	200 meter swim (freestyle) in less than 5 minutes 3 minute survival float	Minimum 228 meter open water swim (competition course as per competition manual)	Surf rescue Certificate