Join Nippers
What is Nippers?
Nippers is an activities-based program that introduces children aged 5 to 13 to surf life saving. It is all about kids learning, gaining confidence, and developing valuable life skills through fun, structured activities in a safe beach environment. Nippers also provides kids with an opportunity to participate in surf sports competition, with a series of carnivals held throughout the season. The Newcastle SLSC nippers program typically runs on Sunday mornings from October to March.
FAQ
How old does my child have to be to join Nippers?
A child may join nippers as soon as they turn five years of age.
A child who reaches five years of age after 30 September may join nippers at that time; however, this child will be required to stay in the U6 nippers age group again the following season.
Please refer to the current season info pack for exact cutoff dates.
What age group will my child be in?
The age group that your child will be in is determined by the age they are as at the 30th September the year you are joining.
For example, if your child was 11 on the 30th September (turning 12 on the 5th Oct) they will be in the Under 12 age group (even though they are 12).
Please refer to the current season info pack for exact cutoff dates.
Does my child change age groups if their birthday is during the season?
No. The age group that your child will be in for the whole season is determined by the age they are as at the 30th September the year you are joining.
For my child to join, does a parent/caregiver need to be a member?
Yes. We require that at least one parent/caregiver per nipper family must be registered as a member.
Does my child have to be able to swim to join?
It certainly helps.
Every child in the U8 to U14 age groups will need to complete a Preliminary Skills Assessment including a swim and a survival float before participating in any junior activity.
This will determine whether they can progress to the water based junior activities under normal water safety supervision or if they will require closer supervision.
Is this a “learn to swim” program?
No. We do not provide specific learn to swim training. We strongly encourage that this be taken up externally.
What water safety measures are in place for Nippers?
A Water Safety Supervisor (WSS) is appointed for all water-based activities.
The WSS conducts a risk assessment at the start of each session, and monitors conditions throughout – activities are adapted and can be cancelled in hazardous situations.
Water Safety Personnel (WSP) are qualified and proficient lifesavers who provide surveillance and assistance in the water if required with lifesaving equipment.
You will see them on the beach in their high-visibility cap and rash shirt stating ‘Water Safety’ on the front and back for easy identification.
What do U6 and U7 members do during Nippers?
The U6 and U7 Surf Play program is all about fun, participation and building confidence.
The lesson plans consist of surf education, personal safety, running and flags, swimming, wading, and lots of other fun games and activities!
What does my child need to wear/bring to Nippers?
Swimmers, club cap, long sleeve t-shirt or rash vest, a sun hat, towel, water, snack and sunscreen.
For prices and availability of club apparel please contact our Nippers Coordinator (Director of Junior Member Services).
What are the end-of-season junior awards?
Each age group has an award which is achieved by participation throughout the season.
The award celebrates the new skills and knowledge which have been gained.
Your child will need to attend and participate in all the compulsory sessions to attain the award.
What and who are Age Managers?
An Age Manager is a member of the club who takes responsibility for the instruction of an age group throughout the season.
All Age Managers are trained and hold a current Working with Children Check (WWCC) in line with legislative requirements.
If you are interested in helping with the delivery of Nippers and becoming an Age Manager or (or maybe even becoming a surf lifesaver yourself!), get in touch with us – we love our parents getting involved!
What can I do to help?
There are lots of ways you can get involved at the club.
If becoming an Age Manager or surf lifesaver is not for you, there are plenty of other tasks that you can help with!
Perhaps you could help with training, coaching, officiating, fundraising or cooking the Club BBQ?
Contact us to discuss how you can help out.
All parents who get involved must become a member of the club.