Training
We train to the standards of the British Sub Aqua Club (BSAC), with instructors giving their time free of charge. Because we are a club we don't run traditional 'courses' with start and end dates. Training takes place at your own pace, and continues until everyone is happy that the required standards have been met.
To take part in any training you'll need to be a member of the club (annual fees are currently £100). You'll also need to join BSAC (£47 annually) to get the required third party insurance cover, but you do get the monthly 'Dive' magazine as part of your membership.
You'll also need to purchase the "Ocean Diver" training pack (£30) which included the excellent 'Diving Manual', a student workbook and your Qualification Book. We also charge a one-off training fee of £50 which helps us to cover the cost of the pool and the servicing of the equipment which we'll lend you.
If you've already done some training with another agency such as PADI you can cross-over and convert your qualifications. If you cross-over to the "Sport Diver" programme then we'll reduce the training feee to £25 and if you cross-over to a higher level qualication we'll waive the fee altogether.
We know that the fees add up to quite a lot, but it's probably wise to realise now that diving is not a cheap sport!
Before you start training you'll need to do the following:
- A swimming test to ensure you are confident in the water.
- Fill out a self-certification medical form.
If you have any questions about medical conditions you may have then please ask us. Not everything will stop you from learning to dive but we may need to refer you on to a medical referee for a professional opinion. Don't worry about this as sometimes it's as simple as a phone call.
"Ocean Diver" training starts with a number of pool and theory lessons, as well as a miltiple choice test. Once you have successfully completed this section you can move on to open water training which starts in sheltered water sites such as inland lakes or shallow beaches. From there we progressively build on your skills and confidence until you complete the Ocean Diver course.
Most people then carry on to take the "Sport Diver" course which extends your skills and diving range. You can then carry on to "Dive Leader", "Advanced Diver" or even "First Class Diver", or why not take one of the instructor qualifications.
The training is designed to promote self-confidence and self-reliance at each level whilst sharing the experience with others in a social club environment. Safety is the key word throughout training and all diving activities. Diving is fun and exhilarating. Safe and competent diver training ensures this.
