‘I’m proud I’m part of a program that is saving lives’

École St Patrick High School has partnered with the City of Yellowknife on a lifeguarding program that is quickly gaining momentum.

Last fall, some 16 students in grades 9 and 10 joined the program, which is designed to help them begin working toward lifeguard certification while still in school.

So far, participants have earned their Bronze Medallion, first aid, CPR-C and Bronze Cross certifications. They are now working toward their National Lifeguard certification, which would allow them to work as lifeguards.

Kamryn Gallant said encouragement from family and friends led her to join the program, an experience she now describes as supportive and confidence-building.

Although she did not have an extensive background in swimming beyond childhood lessons, Gallant said the program helped her develop important skills beyond the pool. Students learn first aid, various rescue techniques, how to recognize signs of distress, and how to work together effectively in emergency situations.

One of the most challenging parts of the training for Gallant has been the timed swim, which she said does not come easily. Despite that, she credited instructors with providing consistent guidance.

“I like the instructors because they’re really supportive and they really try to help you succeed,” she said, adding the instructors often offered tips and assistance even outside scheduled class times.

Gallant said through the program, she got an opportunity to meet students from other grades with whom she may not otherwise interact. She recommends the program to other students, calling it a valuable and free opportunity that builds both practical skills and social connections.

Lifeguarding is something she wants to continue during university or as a part-time job.

Another participant, Naya Nichols, described the course as a valuable opportunity to learn and practise skills such as first aid, CPR, and how to respond to emergencies like shock and hypothermia – knowledge she said is particularly important in the North.

Nichols said she enjoyed in-class sessions that focused on communication and identifying signs and symptoms during emergency situations. One of the most difficult aspects for her was building endurance for timed swims, something she said became more manageable with weekly practice.

Like Gallant, she also sees herself continuing lifeguarding in university.

“I’m most proud that I’m a part of a program that is saving lives,” she said, “and once we get this certification, we can help inform others and prevent water related injuries and prevent drowning.”

Avah Penney said her past experience with swim clubs as a child helped her adjust to the program. She admitted the program initially felt time-consuming but she now sees the benefits it offers.

Her sister participated in the program before her, inspiring her to join.

“Lifeguards are always in demand, no matter where you are in Canada,” she said.

“If I’m in university and need a job, it’ll be easy for me to find one if I have my lifeguard training done. It’ll be very good pay no matter where you are.”

Kathleen Finnigan, the principal at St Pat’s, said she hoped the partnership with the city will continue.

She said the school “continues to look for community partners interested in developing future employees through training opportunities during the Yellowknife Catholic Schools early Thursday dismissal times.”