Sophie Johnstone
Newcastle Upon Tyne
Summary
Highly motivated University of Edinburgh student with top A-level grades and a strong background in elite sport, having competed nationally in swimming, hockey, biathlon and cross country, including selection for the North East Cross Country team and title of British Biathlon Champion. Completed Bronze, Silver and Gold Duke of Edinburgh Awards, demonstrating resilience, teamwork and leadership. Experienced camp counsellor through Camp America with extensive responsibility for children, alongside swim teaching and lifeguarding duties. Holds a National Pool Lifeguarding Qualification with three years' professional experience, bringing strong expertise in emergency response, CPR and AED use, health and safety compliance, and calm decision-making under pressure. Known for reliability, clear communication and a people-centred approach to public safety.
Overview
2
2
years of professional experience
Work history
Lifeguard
Places Leisure (Ponteland Leisure Centre)
Newcastle upon Tyne
08.2023 - Current
- Monitored swimming areas to ensure safety and well-being of all patrons.
- Responded promptly to emergencies, providing first aid and rescue assistance as needed.
- Conducted regular safety checks of facilities, equipment, and emergency response procedures.
- Organised and led swimming lessons for various age groups, enhancing their skills and confidence.
- Worked flexible shifts including holidays and weekends providing continuous coverage.
- Collaborated with team members to maintain cleanliness and proper upkeep of pool areas.
Lifeguard (Pool and Lake)
Camps Equinunk and Blue Ridge
Equinunk, Pennsylvania , Wayne County, Pennsylvania
06.2025 - 08.2025
- Monitored pool and lake areas to ensure safety of all patrons.
- Responded quickly to emergencies and provided first aid as needed.
- Conducted regular safety checks on lifeguard equipment and facilities.
- Assisted in organising and leading swimming lessons for various age groups.
- Collaborated with team members to maintain cleanliness of pool and surrounding areas.
- Adhered to health and safety policies to promote a secure environment.
- Engaged with patrons to foster a welcoming and friendly atmosphere.
- Assisted swimmers in distress, preventing potential accidents.
- Provided first aid for minor injuries, ensuring quick recovery.
- Coordinated with other lifeguards for efficient work flow during peak hours.
- Carried out daily operational checks of equipment for optimal performance.
Swimming teacher
Camps Equinunk and Blue Ridge
Equinunk, Pensylvannia , Wayne County, Pensylvannia
06.2025 - 08.2025
- Developed and implemented engaging swimming lesson plans tailored to various skill levels.
- Instructed groups of children in swimming techniques ensuring safety and proper form.
- Monitored pool activities maintaining a safe environment for all participants.
- Coordinated swimming assessments providing constructive feedback to enhance skills.
- Collaborated with fellow instructors to improve teaching methods and curriculum.
- Managed group classes effectively, ensuring each student received adequate attention and guidance.
- Administered first aid when required, prioritising student welfare at all times.
Camp counsellor
Camps Equinunk and Blue Ridge
Equinunk, Pennsylvania , Wayne County, Pennsylvania
06.2025 - 08.2025
- Supervised daily activities and ensured safety of campers throughout holiday sessions.
- Developed engaging programmes that fostered teamwork and personal growth among participants.
- Facilitated conflict resolution and promoted positive behaviour in group settings.
- Assisted in training new counsellors to uphold camp standards and values effectively.
- Monitored health and wellbeing of campers, providing support and guidance as needed.
- Responded quickly to crisis situations, taking decisive action for camper safety.
- Responded to camper inquiries and concerns promptly throughout the night.
Education
Master of Arts - Geography
The University of Edinburgh
Edinburgh, Scotland 09/2023 -
A-Levels -
Newcastle High School for Girls
Newcastle upon Tyne 09/2009 - 06/2023
Skills
- Adaptability to changing situations
- Decision making under pressure
- Automated external defibrillator usage
- Public safety principles
- Resuscitation technique knowledge
- People-Centered approach
- Punctuality and reliability
- Emergency Response
- CPR certified
- Excellent communication
- Positive attitude
- Assertiveness
- Emergency Action Plans
- Health and Safety regulations
Timeline
Lifeguard (Pool and Lake)
Camps Equinunk and Blue Ridge
06.2025 - 08.2025
Swimming teacher
Camps Equinunk and Blue Ridge
06.2025 - 08.2025
Camp counsellor
Camps Equinunk and Blue Ridge
06.2025 - 08.2025
Lifeguard
Places Leisure (Ponteland Leisure Centre)
08.2023 - Current
Master of Arts - Geography
The University of Edinburgh
09/2023 -
A-Levels -
Newcastle High School for Girls
09/2009 - 06/2023