nippers junior program

Children in pink swimwear and blue swim caps riding surfboards in the ocean, with some falling off and the waves splashing.

Learn, grow And have fun at the beach

Nippers is Surf Life Saving Tasmania’s junior program for children aged 5 to 14. It’s a fun, safe and structured way for young people to:

  • Learn beach and water safety

  • Build confidence in the ocean

  • Make friends and stay active

Nippers is more than a program; Nippers is about enjoying the beach while developing skills and friendships that can last a lifetime.

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A man and a girl wearing life jackets and swim caps enjoying a high five in the ocean water.

A program for the whole family

Nippers is more than just a weekly activity — it’s a community. Families are encouraged to get involved, with opportunities to support sessions and volunteer in ways that suit their time and interests.

Nippers requires the support of a wide range of volunteers, including parents/carers and club members.

    • Age Manager 

    • Water safety team or assistant

    • Junior Activities Coordinator

    • Coaching

    • Helping with setup, pack down or BBQ

  • You can start Surf Life Saving from a young age and choose your own pathway as you build skills, confidence and connections.

    Read more

  • Four children in pink shirts and blue swim caps standing together at the beach with ocean waves in the background. One adult in an orange shirt can be seen in the water.

    Why join Nippers

    Nippers offers a wide range of benefits for children and families:

    • Builds confidence in and around the water

    • Develops important life skills, including teamwork and resilience

    • Encourages physical activity and healthy habits

    • Creates friendships and a strong sense of belonging

    • Provides a pathway into Surf Life Saving

    For many participants, Nippers is the first step towards becoming a volunteer lifesaver.

  • Children and instructor practicing CPR on a training mannequin in a classroom setting.

    What kids will learn

    Through games and hands-on activities, Nippers teaches:

    • Surf and beach safety

    • Basic rescue skills

    • Ocean awareness and confidence

    • Teamwork and communication

    Children gradually build their skills in a supportive environment, learning at their own pace.

  • A young boy in a pink rash guard and blue shorts is running out of the water at the beach, holding a blue and white surfboard, with another person partially visible on the right holding a surfboard.

    How it works

    Each Surf Life Saving Club runs its own Nippers program, tailored to:

    • Local beach conditions

    • Member needs

    • Club capacity

    Programs focus on participation, learning and fun, not just competition.

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Nippers Frequently Asked Questions

  • No, the focus is on fun, learning and participation. Competitions are optional as children get older.

  • No, Nippers is a beach and ocean safety program. Children need basic swimming ability before joining.

  • Children complete a simple swim and survival assessment each season. Requirements vary by age group and increase as children get older.

    • A mix of beach and water-based activities, which may include:

    • Wading, swimming and board paddling

    • Beach games and running

    • Safety and rescue skill development

  • Following completion of your preliminary skills evaluation to participate in Nippers, should a child wish to compete at Surf Sports Carnivals they will need to pass a Junior Preliminary Skills Assessment. Click here to find out more about Surf Sports.

  • Sessions may be adjusted or cancelled depending on conditions to ensure safety.

  • Children can join Nippers from the year you are 5 on 30 September.

  • Nippers typically runs weekly during the patrol season. Session times vary by club.

  • Parent involvement is encouraged but flexible.

    You can help in ways that suit your availability — both on and off the beach.

  • Costs vary by club and may include:

    • Membership fees

    • Uniform items (e.g. rash vest and cap)

    • Contact your local club for details

  • Safety is a priority. Sessions are run by trained volunteers, with:

    • Supervised activities

    • Water safety support

    • Conditions assessed before each session