A SCHEME that teaches youngsters to save lives and respect the sea returns for its sixth year running.

The Schools Surf Life Saving Programme has now been running each June for the past five years in conjunction with the Paddle Round The Pier (PRTP) beach festival and sees groups of school children from across Sussex visit a specially built arena on Hove's promenade.

Every day a new class of 30 students is introduced to the fundamentals of being a beach lifeguard and surf life saving as a sport.

The program then runs through basic lifeguarding skills such as the use of a rescue board, rescue tube and sea swimming as well as learning CPR and first aid.

It is just one example of the outreach work PRTP has undertaken over its 20 year tenure.

Dave Samuel, director of PRTP, said: “This scheme is one we are particularly proud of as it really does save lives.

"It may not be on a beach but someday, somewhere, the first aid skills these kids have learnt will save a life.”

The activities take place in the Jeep Beach Sports Arena, a 20m by 15m sandpit which draws a crowd of onlookers each day. Participants play the sport of Beach Flags, a fast and furious activity teaching both speed and agility.

Mr Samuel added: "We are delighted to once again be working with Brighton Surf Life Saving Club and Surf Life Saving GB to deliver these valuable lessons which really do save lives."

The Schools Surf Lifesaving Programme runs from June 6 until July 1 and there are still places left for parents who want to get involved through their child's school.

Mr Samuel said: "If your school has not told you about this scheme (they have all been invited), ask your headteacher or head of PE to email us.

"We actively encourage schools to select children that will gain from a day of learning outside of the classroom environment and who may not get the opportunity to partake in beach activities in their home life.

"We aim to be part of the children’s enrichment experiences and encourage them to become more active."

Email surflifesaving@paddleroundthepier.com.