Rangi Ruru has been one of The Royal Life Saving Society’s strongest supporters for more than 80 years and a consistent winner of Branch trophies.

As part of the Year 9 curriculum, all girls are required to complete a Bronze Star Award in Lifesaving to develop skills and knowledge of safe water rescue and survival. This comprises four components, a 300m timed swim, practical water test, theory paper and a basic resuscitation exam. Whilst the timed swim is achieved during physical education classes during Term 1, the water skills are practised at lunchtime. For the majority one lunchtime per week throughout the term is sufficient although on occasion a second session is required to catch up on sessions missed or to further practise skills learnt.

The sessions are taught by senior students who aim to make them enjoyable and rewarding. They remember only too clearly the challenges involved and manage to bring a welcome sense of humour and unique approach to the programme.

The benefits of gaining a foundation in lifesaving skills are significant and considered extremely worthwhile at Rangi Ruru. We would therefore appreciate your support in encouraging your daughter to undertake the training programme that will enable her to achieve an award by the end of Term 1.

Lesley Joyce, Lifesaving Coordinator