Aqua Park may have sparked local debate with its latest location at Cosmeston Lakes, but behind the scenes, the water-based attraction has quietly built a strong legacy of community investment — particularly in lifeguard training and youth development.
Ahead of the new site’s eight-week trial launch on July 5, the company is celebrating a major milestone: more than 100 young people in the region have now qualified as lifeguards through its in-house training programmes.
Since 2019, Aqua Park’s Cardiff and Cosmeston teams have trained 112 young people in Royal Life Saving Society (RLSS) UK Open Water Lifeguard qualifications, equipping them with essential life-saving skills and job-ready experience. This summer alone, 16 new lifeguards have completed their training in preparation for the Cosmeston Lakes opening.
The team at Cosmeston will be made up of over 40 staff, including 27 fully qualified lifeguards, ensuring guests enjoy a fun, professionally run, and safe experience. For many, working at the Aqua Park is their first step into the world of employment — and a springboard into future careers.
“Our training programme, developed in partnership with RLSS UK, goes beyond just safety standards,” said Ioan Mathias, Site Manager at Cosmeston Lakes Aqua Park. “It’s about building confidence, leadership and long-term employability. Each summer, we see young people come into their own and grow into community role models.”
That training extends off the water too. Since launching five years ago, the Aqua Park has trained more than 65 young people in customer service and operational roles, including guest reception, ticketing, and safety briefings. Many return year after year, creating a supportive team culture and strong staff retention — with several progressing into senior or mentoring positions.
Luke Evans, a qualified lifeguard from Penarth, says the experience has been transformative:
“I never imagined how much confidence this role would give me. The training was tough but so rewarding — I’ve learned life-saving skills, built great friendships, and now feel ready to take on any challenge.”
While the trial site at Cosmeston Lakes Country Park has generated some local discussion, Aqua Park hopes to show that it can bring more than just thrills. Its new home will also create around 40 local jobs, mostly filled by young people from Cardiff, Penarth and across the Vale.
As the company embarks on a new chapter at Cosmeston Lakes, it remains committed to making a positive impact: offering fun and adventure for families, while supporting skills, employment, and opportunity for the next generation.
For more details on the Cosmeston Lakes Aqua Park, visit: https://aquaparkgroup.co.uk/locations/cardiff/
