Dive In and Earn High School Credits and Swim Certifications
The Aquatic Leadership Program offers students a unique opportunity to earn high school credits while gaining swim, lifeguarding and instructor certifications.
What does the program look like?
Students earn a Health and Physical Education Credit towards their high school diploma and depending on the course, can work towards certifications including:
- Lifesaving Society Bronze Medallion and Bronze Cross
- Standard First Aid with CPR-C
- National Lifeguard Certification
- Lifesaving Instruction Certification
Developed in partnership between York Region District School Board and municipalities, the program combines:
- in-pool instruction
- face-to-classroom learning
- online course components
Courses are taught by Ontario Certified Teachers who also hold National Lifeguard Instructor and Examiner Certification.
The program is offered in two parts. Students may take part one or part two, or both, as long as they meet the prerequisites.
| Part One | Part Two | |
|---|---|---|
| Secondary School Credit | Healthy Living and Aquatic Activities, Grade 10 Open (PAQ2O1) | Recreation and Healthy Active Living Leadership, Grade 12 University/College (PLF4M1) |
| Certifications |
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| Prerequisites | Students must:
| Students must:
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The Aquatic Leadership Program is offered in partnership between the York Region District School Board and the Towns of Aurora and East Gwillimbury, and the Cities of Markham, Richmond Hill and Vaughan.
Hear from students in the program
Not sure if this program is right for you? Hear from students who are in the course and see what it looks like.
What are the benefits?
Through the program, students:
- Earn secondary school credits towards their high school diploma.
- Can earn industry-recognized certifications.
- Build leadership, collaboration, communication and critical thinking skills.
- Gain experience and qualifications that may support future employment as a lifeguard or swim instructor.
Where is it offered?
It is currently offered in partnership with the following municipalities:
Visit the link for your municipality to check the requirements for each area and confirm the location, times, application process and additional details.
How and when do I apply?
Registration opens in August for the first semester session and December for second semester. Check your location for application information:
Current Offerings
Aquatic Leadership Part 1 (Semester 2) |
|---|
| East Gwillimbury: February 17, 2026 – June 4, 2026 (Tuesday/Thursday) - CANCELLED |
Aquatic Leadership Part 2 (Semester 2) |
|---|
| Aurora: February 9, 2026 – June 22, 2026 (Monday/Wednesday) Markham: February 10, 2026 – June 9, 2026 (Tuesday/Thursday) Richmond Hill: February 13, 2026 – June 19, 2026 (Monday/Wednesday) - FULL Vaughan: February 10, 2026 – June 9, 2026 (Tuesday/Thursday) - CANCELLED |
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