The Sussex Academy Aquatic Center offers American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification and Recertification training for individuals interested in developing lifesaving and emergency response skills. The Lifeguard Certification course costs $350, while Recertification is $275, with payment due on the first day of class. Participants must be at least 15 years old by the last scheduled class and complete the required online blended learning portion prior to the first in-person session. Recertification participants must also complete the ARC.24 online learning update. Upon successful completion of the course, participants receive an American Red Cross Lifeguarding certification valid for two years.

Before enrolling, participants must pass a prerequisite swim skills evaluation, which includes continuous swimming, treading water using only the legs, and completing a timed rescue scenario involving retrieving a 10-pound object from deep water. Classes include hands-on training in water rescue skills, CPR/AED, first aid, spinal injury response, and emergency care until medical professionals arrive. Participants should bring a swimsuit, towels, warm clothing, snacks, and water for all in-water sessions. Multiple course sessions and recertification classes are offered throughout Spring and early Summer 2026, with full details and scheduling available through the Sussex Academy Aquatics program and flyer below.