National Coastwatch Worms Head

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NCI Worms Head volunteer watchkeepers outside the lookout station
Recruitment Open

Join the Watchkeeper Team

Help protect lives around Rhosili and the Worms Head causeway as a volunteer watchkeeper with the National Coastwatch.

What Does a Watchkeeper Do?

NCI watchkeepers are the “Eyes Along the Coast.” From our lookout station perched high on the cliff overlooking Worms Head and Rhosili Bay, we maintain visual and radio surveillance for:

  • Walkers and visitors crossing the tidal causeway.
  • Vessels, kayakers, paddleboarders, and coastal swimmers in difficulty.
  • Climbers and coasteerers around the cliffs of Gower.
  • Monitoring Marine VHF Radio Channel 65 for safety checks.
  • Working directly alongside HM Coastguard (MRCC Milford Haven) and the RNLI.
No previous maritime or military experience is necessary. We provide full, structured training covering VHF radio procedures, chart work, meteorology, and optical sweeps.
The Training Journey

Structured mentoring to take you from your first visit to qualified certification.

1

Taster Visit

Visit the lookout, sit in on a live watch, and meet the station crew.

Informal
2

Trainee Watchkeeper

Hands-on experience with optics, tide boards, radar, and station logs alongside mentors.

Mentored
3

Radio & Chartwork

Modules covering VHF marine radio procedures, SAR coordination, and local topography.

Accredited
4

Watchkeeper Certified

Practical assessment confirming you are ready to stand full operational watches.

Certified

Ready to Apply?

NCI Worms Head is always looking for Volunteer Watchkeepers. Fill in a short expression-of-interest form and our Station Manager will be in touch — it only takes a few minutes.

Expression of Interest →
Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to live in Rhosili?

No. Our volunteers come from all across Gower, Swansea, and surrounding areas.

What is the age requirement?

Volunteers must be aged 18 or over. There is no upper age limit.

Is uniform provided?

Foul-weather gear is provided at the lookout for use on watch. Your NCI polos, shirts, jumpers and fleeces are bought at your own cost (at discounted station rates) once you're through training — it's a one-off expense many volunteers consider part of supporting the station.

Can I help in non-watch roles?

Yes! We also welcome support volunteers for fundraising, station maintenance, IT, and event coordination.