PADI eLearning offers flexibility, allowing you to study at your own pace before the practical sessions. It's as effective as traditional learning, providing a solid foundation for in-water skills.

We supply all of the equipment you will need for the duration of your course, with the exception of professional level courses. This includes all standardized Scuba equipment and any specialized equipment required to complete your course.

Even though all the equipment is provided during your course. it is strongly recommended that you purchase your own mask, fins and snorkel, due to fit, comfort and hygiene. We can advise you on selecting the correct equipment.

Open Water dives are conducted at one of the following inland UK Diving Centres. Each of these dive centres charge an entrance fee to enable the use of their facilities. The cost of this ranges between £16-£26 per day, depending on membership.

Capernwray Dive Centre, Carnforth, Lancashire

Ecclestone Delph, Chorley, Lancashire

Stoney Cove, Stoney Stanton, Leicestershire

The cost of entrance fees and any subsequent travel and accommodation expenses are NOT included in the course price.

The open water dives are generally held at

Capernwray Dive Centre, Jackdaw Quarry, Carnforth, LA6 1AD

If the location of the course is different from the those listed here, you will be made aware of the revised location prior to the commencement of your course.

If a drysuit confined water session is required it will be conducted at either

Chesterton Sports College, Chesterton, Newcastle, ST5 7LJ

or

Denstone College, Denstone, Uttoxeter, ST14 5HN

As with all diver training programs we require a few forms to be completed prior to any in-water training. This ensures that we have your most recent details and also to provide you with the necessary information regarding your course.

Further details of each of these forms can be found here.

The PADI Open Water Diver Course is your passport to the underwater world. It's the first step in becoming a certified scuba diver. Taking this course not only enhances your aquatic skills but also opens up a whole new world of adventure beneath the surface. Explore, learn, and dive into a lifetime of underwater wonders!

The duration can vary, but on average, it takes about 5 to 6 weeks to complete the course with Scuba Courses.

Our PADI Open Water courses are scheduled to run over a number of confined pool sessions , typically with one session per week. The course concludes with 2 full days at an open water site within the UK.

Please contact us if you require a different course schedule.

The course prices includes the following:

• PADI e-Learning Open Water Diver materials

• PADI certification fee

• Confined water training sessions (as per schedule)

• 4 Open water training dives (as per schedule)

• Full dive equipment hire

• Air Fills

Open Water dives are conducted over 2 days at one of the following inland UK Diving Centres. Each of these dive centres charge an entrance fee to enable the use of their facilities. The cost of this ranges between £16-£26 per day, depending on membership.

Capernwray Dive Centre, Carnforth, Lancashire

Ecclestone Delph, Chorley, Lancashire

Stoney Cove, Stoney Stanton, Leicestershire

The cost of entrance fees and any subsequent travel and accommodation expenses are NOT included in the course price.

There are 2 sections to the course, confined water training & open water dives.

The confined water training sessions are conducted at either

Chesterton Community Sports College, Castle Street, Chesterton, Newcastle, ST5 7LJ

or

Denstone College, Denstone, Uttoxeter, ST14 5HN

The open water dives are generally held at

Capernwray Dive Centre, Jackdaw Quarry, Capernwray Rd, Over Kellet, Carnforth, LA6 1AD

If the location of the course is different from the those listed here, you will be made aware of the revised location prior ti the commencement of your course/

During the PADI Open Water Diver course and upon certification the following depth limits will apply depending on the age of the diver.

• Aged 10 & 11 - Depth limit of 12 metres with either a parent/guardian or a PADI Professional.

• Aged 12 to 14 - Depth limit of 18 metres with a certified adult diver.

• Aged 15+ - Depth limit of 18 metres with another certified diver.

The only prerequisites are that you are at least 10 years old, in good health and comfortable in & around water.

PADI stands for the Professional Association of Diving Instructors. PADI is a widely recognized organization that provides training and certification for scuba divers worldwide.

It's super easy to become a certified diver with Scuba Courses. We offer a range of experiences and courses specifically designed for total beginners with no experience whatsoever.

The most popular entry level course is the PADI Open Water course, which we offer at both our Chesterton College and Denstone College venues.

The minimum age to become certified as a PADI diver is 10.

The PADI Junior Open Water Diver certification is available for those aged between the ages of 10 & 14. Ten & eleven year olds must dive with a certified parent/guardian or PADI Professional to a maximum depth of 12 metres. Those aged between 12 and 14 must dive with a certified adult to a maximum depth of 18 metres.

Those aged 15 and over are classed as adults, with no upper age limit.

The PADI Bubblemaker & PADI Seal Team programs allow children from the age of 8 to experience Scuba Diving in the safe confines of a swimming pool.

Our Scuba experiences start from as little as £39 per person, making it affordable for many to experience an unforgettable adventure.

Our full certification courses start from £495 and offer a lifetime of adventure with a certification that never expires.

Absolutely not.

During all of our experiences and courses, we provide all the equipment you require. This is included in our course prices as standard.

We offer advice and guidance for those looking to invest in their own equipment.

Learning to scuba dive involves a combination of theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and gaining comfort in the underwater environment. For many people, the process is enjoyable and rewarding. However, the perceived difficulty can vary from person to person. Here are some factors to consider:

Comfort in Water

If you are already comfortable in the water and enjoy activities like swimming, you may find scuba diving to be a more natural and enjoyable experience.

Physical Fitness

While scuba diving doesn't require extreme physical fitness, being in good health and fitness can contribute to a more comfortable and enjoyable learning experience.

Understanding of Theory

Scuba diving involves learning some theoretical concepts, such as dive physics, physiology, and equipment operation. Some people may find these aspects more challenging than others, but a combination of PADI's innovative e-Learning system & our experienced instructors will guide you through the necessary knowledge.

Practice and Skill Developmen

Learning and mastering certain skills underwater, such as buoyancy control, mask clearing, and regulator retrieval, can take some practice. The more you practice, the more confident and comfortable you will become.

Fear or Anxiety

Overcoming any fear or anxiety related to being underwater is a common challenge for some new divers. Our patient and experienced instructors will help individuals work through these concerns.

Experience and Exposure

Regular exposure to the underwater environment can contribute significantly to your comfort and confidence as a diver. Logging more dives and gaining experience will make diving feel more natural over time.

Remember that scuba diving courses are designed to be progressive, starting with basic skills in a controlled environment (such as a pool) before advancing to open water dives. Our experienced instructors are trained to guide and support you through the learning process. If you approach scuba diving with a positive attitude, an eagerness to learn, and follow safety guidelines, you're likely to find it a rewarding and accessible activity.

No, you don't have to be a strong swimmer. There is however a requirement that you are able to swim a distance of 200 metres (non-stop) and complete a 10 minute tread water/float. There is no time limit on the 200 metre swim and no particular stroke required.

Yes, PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) certifications are widely recognized and accepted worldwide. PADI is one of the most globally recognized scuba diving training organizations, and its certifications are acknowledged by dive shops, dive operators, and organizations across the globe.

When you earn a PADI certification, such as the Open Water Diver certification, it signifies that you have completed a standardized training program that meets international diving standards. This recognition allows you to dive at various locations and with different dive operators, as they commonly accept PADI certifications.

Your PADI certification is valid for a lifetime. However, to be a safe and confident diver, it's recommended to stay active in the sport, refresh your skills as needed, and consider additional training and education to enhance your diving capabilities.

Scuba diving is generally a safe and enjoyable activity when conducted with proper training, adherence to safety protocols, and within established limits. Our certification courses equip divers with essential skills.

Adhering to safety guidelines, maintaining physical fitness, and considering environmental factors are crucial. Regular equipment maintenance, thorough dive planning, and emergency preparedness contribute to safe diving practices.

Despite inherent risks, scuba diving can be a rewarding experience when divers stay within their skill levels, remain aware of surroundings, and prioritize safety. Responsible wildlife interaction and respect for the underwater environment further enhance the diving experience.

Once certified, like with PADI Open Water Diver, you can dive independently with another certified diver. New divers are encouraged to gain experience with a more experienced diver.

Comfort and confidence are key for independent diving. If uncertain, dive with an experienced buddy or seek guidance.

Consider advanced training, like PADI Advanced Open Water Diver, where you can gain further confidence and improve your skill-set.

Safety is paramount, so dive within your training and experience levels.

Yes, you can absolutely sign up for a scuba diving course on your own. Many individuals undertake scuba diving training independently and meet other participants during the course.

Diving is a social activity, and courses often foster a supportive environment among participants. Signing up alone is a common and perfectly acceptable way to begin your scuba diving journey.

You'll likely make new friends and diving buddies as you progress through the training.

The duration of a scuba dive can vary widely based on factors such as dive depth, air consumption rate, and dive plan. Typically, recreational dives last between 30 minutes to an hour, with the average around 45 minutes. Factors influencing dive time include the diver's air consumption, depth, and the type of diving activity. Deeper dives and activities like underwater photography may result in shorter dive times due to increased air consumption. Divers must adhere to no-decompression limits and safety stop requirements during ascent. Professional divers or technical divers engaging in specialized activities may have longer or shorter dive times based on their objectives.

While experienced divers may choose to engage in solo diving, it is generally discouraged, and most scuba diving training organizations, including PADI, emphasize the importance of diving with a buddy. Diving with a buddy enhances safety by providing mutual support in case of emergencies.

Solo diving requires specialized training, such as the PADI Self-Reliant Diver course, which teaches divers self-sufficiency and advanced safety procedures. However, even with such training, solo diving is considered a more advanced and riskier form of diving due to the absence of immediate assistance in case of emergencies.

For recreational divers, it is strongly recommended to dive with a buddy for safety reasons. Always follow the guidelines of your certifying agency and consider advanced training if you have a specific need or interest in solo diving.

That depends on your certification level, age and experience.

As a certified PADI Open Water diver you will be qualified to dive to a maximum depth of 18 metres, in conditions similar to, or better than those you are trained/experienced in.

As a certified PADI Advanced Open Water Diver you will be qualified to dive to a maximum depth of 30 metres, in conditions similar to, or better than those you are trained/experienced in.

As a PADI Deep Diver you will be qualified to dive to a maximum depth of 40 metres, in conditions similar to, or better than those you are trained/experienced in.

Depths deeper than 40 metres are considered as Technical Diving and require additional Technical Divier training and equipment. PADI offer a wide range of Technical Training programs, including the use of mixed gases and rebreathers.

The PADI Underwater Navigation Specialty focuses on honing your underwater navigation skills, allowing you to confidently navigate various dive sites.

To enroll, you need to be at least 10 years old and hold a PADI (Junior) Open Water Diver certification or equivalent.

The PADI Underwater Navigation Specialty hones divers' navigation skills through techniques like natural and compass navigation & the use of both time and fin kicks to estimate distance.

There are a total of 3 dives to complete and these are normally conducted on a single day.

The PADI Digital Underwater Photography Specialty focuses on teaching essential skills for capturing stunning underwater images.

To enroll onto the PADI Digital Underwater Photography course you must be:

• Aged 10+

• Medically fit to dive

• Certified PADI Open Water/PADI Junior Open Water diver (or equivalent)

The course covers camera basics, underwater photography techniques, composition, and post-dive photo editing.

The course is designed to accommodate various camera types, from basic point-and-shoot to more advanced DSLR cameras.

There are a total of 2 dives to complete and these are normally conducted on a single day.

The PADI Coral Reef Conservation Specialty educates divers on the importance of coral reefs and provides practical ways to contribute to their preservation.

There are no prerequisites, making it accessible to all divers and non-divers interested in marine conservation.

The course covers coral biology, reef ecosystems, common threats, and practical actions individuals can take to protect and conserve coral reefs.

Yes, the course is open to non-divers, snorkelers, and divers alike, emphasizing the importance of coral conservation for all who enjoy the ocean.

The course duration is usually a few hours, making it convenient for those looking to enhance their understanding of coral conservation.

The course empowers individuals to become ambassadors for coral conservation, fostering a sense of responsibility and contributing to global marine conservation efforts.

The PADI Boat Diver Specialty focuses on skills and knowledge specific to boat diving, enhancing safety and enjoyment during boat-based dives.

To enroll, you need to be at least 12 years old and hold a PADI (Junior) Open Water Diver certification or equivalent.

The course covers boat entry and exit techniques, understanding boat layouts, and procedures for safe and comfortable boat diving.

There are a total of 2 dives to complete and these are normally conducted on a single day.

We don't include boat fees as these the cost of these differ between dive locations and boat operators. Boat fees would normally be paid to the boat operator directly in addition to the course fee.

The PADI Search and Recovery Specialty teaches essential skills for locating and retrieving lost items underwater.

To enroll, you need to be at least 12 years old and hold a PADI (Junior) Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent.

The course covers search patterns, lift bag use, knots, and underwater navigation for effective search and recovery operations.

There are a total of 4 dives to complete and these are normally conducted over 2 days.

A Kids Scuba Party is a fun and interactive event designed to introduce children to the world of scuba diving in a celebratory and engaging atmosphere. It combines scuba activities, games, and underwater adventures, making it a memorable experience for young participants.

The duration of a childrens Scuba Party is between 1-2 hours. The format includes a safety briefing & then a combination of dive skills & underwater fun & games. They are conducted in the controlled and supervised environment of a shallow swimming pool.

Parents or guardians are more than welcome to take part in the fun. Their presence adds to the celebratory atmosphere, and they play a supportive role in ensuring the children have a fantastic experience.

Safety is a top priority during Kids Scuba Parties. Professional instructors closely supervise all activities, and safety protocols are strictly adhered to. The underwater adventures are conducted in a controlled and secure environment to ensure the well-being of the children.

Kids Scuba Parties are designed to be accessible to children with basic swimming skills. The focus is on building confidence in the water, and activities are adapted to accommodate participants with varying levels of swimming experience.

Our Scuba Parties sessions are held at:

Sundays 4:30pm - Denstone College, Denstone, Uttoxeter, ST14 5HN

The minimum age to take part is 8 with no upper age limit.

Absolutely.

Our Scuba Parties are the perfect introduction to Scuba Diving and are ideal for those that have never tried Scuba diving before. It doesn't make a difference if they're beaming with confidence or a little apprehensive, the session will be conducted at a pace that suits them.

We recommend that they bring comfortable swimwear, a T-shirt that you can wear in the pool & towel. We supply everything else that they'll need during their experience.

Please also complete and bring the booking forms that you will be sent via email upon booking.

The PADI Peak Performance Buoyancy Course is a specialized training program designed to enhance a diver's buoyancy control skills. It is crucial for scuba divers as proper buoyancy not only improves the quality of the diving experience but also contributes to environmental conservation by minimizing contact with underwater life and reef structures.

Unlike other scuba courses, the Peak Performance Buoyancy Course specifically targets buoyancy control skills. It focuses on techniques to achieve and maintain neutral buoyancy, streamline body positioning, and refine control in various underwater situations.

By teaching divers precise buoyancy control and emphasizing the importance of not touching or damaging the underwater environment, the course promotes responsible diving practices. This helps minimize impact on delicate marine ecosystems and contributes to underwater conservation efforts.

Yes, even experienced divers can benefit from the PADI Peak Performance Buoyancy (PPB) Course. This course is designed to enhance a diver's buoyancy control skills, which are fundamental to diving proficiency. While experienced divers may already have a good level of buoyancy control, the PPB Course provides an opportunity to fine-tune and perfect these skills.r here

To enroll in the Peak Performance Buoyancy Course, participants need to be at least 10 years old and have an Open Water Diver certification or equivalent. This ensures a foundational understanding of basic scuba skills.

The e-Learning knowledge development section of the course can be conducted at a time and place that is convenient for you and shouldn't take more than a couple of hours to complete.

The 2 open water dives are then conducted over a single day.

The course price includes the following:

• PADI Peak Performance Buoyancy e-Learning materials

• PADI certification fee

• 2 Open water training dives

• Full dive equipment hire

• Air Fills

The PADI Drysuit Diver Course is a specialized training program designed to teach scuba divers how to safely and effectively use drysuits. It is essential for divers seeking to extend their diving season into colder water conditions, providing them with the skills to stay warm and comfortable underwater.

The Drysuit Diver Course is distinct in that it specifically addresses the skills and knowledge necessary for drysuit diving. It focuses on aspects such as drysuit selection, buoyancy control in a drysuit, emergency procedures, and techniques for staying warm, ensuring divers are well-prepared for cold-water environments.

To enroll in the PADI Drysuit Diver Course, participants need to be at least 10 years old and hold an Open Water Diver certification or equivalent. This ensures that divers have a foundational understanding of basic scuba skills.

The course is divided into 3 sections, knowledge development, confined water dive and 2 open water dives.

Knowledge development is delivered via e-Learning allowing you to study at a time and place that is convenient for you.

The confined water session is held at one of our pool venues prior to undertaking the open water dives. This is to ensure that you are familiar with the techniques and skills required for drysuit use.

Open water dives are normally conducted on a single day at the open water site outlined in the course schedule.

Divers can use their own drysuits if they have one. However, if they don't own a drysuit, we supply one for the duration of the course.

Many dive centers offer drysuit rentals to certified drysuit divers. However, owning a drysuit provides divers with the convenience of using familiar gear and ensures a proper fit. Owning a drysuit can be advantageous for those who plan to dive regularly in colder conditions.

The course price includes the following:

• PADI e-Learning Drysuit Diver materials

• PADI certification fee

• Drysuit confined water training session

• 2 Open water training dives

• Full dive equipment hire (including drysuit)

• Air Fills

Drysuits and wetsuits serve as vital thermal insulation in water activities.

Drysuits, composed of impermeable materials, keep water out completely, requiring additional undergarments for insulation. In contrast, wetsuits, made of neoprene, permit a thin layer of water to warm against the body, providing insulation. They are versatile across a wide range of water temperatures, while drysuits excel in extremely cold conditions.

Ultimately, the choice depends on water conditions and personal preferences, with drysuits prioritizing dryness in cold environments, and wetsuits offering adaptability.

The Emergency First Response First Aid Course is a comprehensive training program that teaches essential first aid and CPR skills. It is a crucial component of scuba diving training as it equips divers with the knowledge and confidence to respond effectively to medical emergencies both in and out of the water.

The course duration is typically one day, and it covers essential topics such as CPR, first aid basics, injury and illness assessment.The training is designed to be practical, hands-on, and applicable to real-life situations

The EFR First Aid Course is not exclusive to divers; it is open to anyone interested in learning life-saving skills. While it is highly beneficial for divers, non-divers, including family members and friends, can also take the course to acquire valuable first aid knowledge.

Yes, the EFR First Aid certification is recognized globally. It is not limited to diving contexts and is applicable in various settings. The skills learned can be used to respond to emergencies in everyday life, making it a valuable certification for both divers and non-divers.

The EFR First Aid certification is typically valid for two years. To stay current and maintain proficiency, participants are encouraged to take a refresher course or attend an update session within that two-year period.

Absolutely! The course is designed for individuals with no prior first aid or CPR training. It provides a solid foundation in life-saving skills, making it accessible and beneficial for those new to first aid as well as those looking to refresh their knowledge.

The course price includes the following:

• EFR e-Learning materials

• EFR certification fee

• EFR Primary & Secondary tuition

Everything you need is included with no extra costs.

We recommend that you bring personal barriers including disposable gloves and face masks.

Please also complete and bring the booking forms that you will receive in your booking confirmation email.

There are no prerequisites needed to enroll onto the course. It is open to everyone with a desire to offer assistance to those in need. It is open to all ages, with or without diving experience.

The PADI Discover Scuba Diving program is an exciting introduction to the underwater world for those who want to experience scuba diving without committing to a full course. It offers a taste of the adventure, allowing you to explore the magic of breathing underwater with the guidance of a certified PADI professional.

Our PADI Discover Scuba sessions are held at:

Thursdays 7:15pm - Chesterton Sports College, Chesterton, Newcastle, ST5 7LJ

Sundays 4:30pm - Denstone College, Denstone, Uttoxeter, ST14 5HN

The experience typically lasts a couple of hours, including a briefing and a confined water (pool) dive. You'll learn basic scuba skills and safety guidelines, followed by an underwater adventure where you can discover the weightless feeling and beauty of the underwater environment.

The minimum age to take part in the PADI Discover Scuba experience is 10.

There is no maximum age at all, as long as you are in good health you can experience the amazing wonders of the underwater world.

Absolutely.

The PADI Discover Scuba session is the perfect introduction to Scuba Diving and is ideal for those that have never tried Scuba diving before. It doesn't make a difference if you're beaming with confidence or a little apprehensive, the session will be conducted at a pace that suits you.

Yes.

You don't need to be an Olympic swimmer to take part in Scuba activties.

Scuba divers move completely differently to swimmers and are propelled underwater by using fins, making movement easier. Furthermore a Scuba Diver has a constant supply of air, making it far easier to breathe than it is when swimming.

Safety is our top priority. All of our sessions include a comprehensive safety briefing and are conducted by experienced professional Divemasters & Instructors. Each session is conducted at a pace that suits you to ensure you get the most from your Scuba experience.

We recommend that you bring comfortable swimwear, a T-shirt that you can wear in the pool & towel. We supply everything else that you'll need during your experience.

Please also complete and bring the booking forms that you will receive in your booking confirmation email.

Sidemount diving is a scuba diving equipment configuration that involves carrying single or multiple cylinders on each side of the diver, mounted parallel to the body, rather than the traditional back mounted cylinder configuration.

Diving with a Sidemount system offers several advantages over standard back mounted cylinders.

• Redundancy: With two separate cylinders, sidemount divers have redundant gas supplies. This can be advantageous in case of equipment failure or emergencies.

• Streamlining: Sidemount diving can offer a more streamlined profile, making it easier to navigate through tight spaces, such as caves or wrecks.

• Easier Equipment Management: Sidemount allows divers to easily manage and access their equipment. Cylinders can be easily removed and replaced, and regulators can be accessed more conveniently.

• Comfort: Many divers find sidemount diving more comfortable, especially those with back issues. The weight of the cylinders is distributed along the sides of the body rather than on the back.

• Easier Cylinder Handling: Sidemount allows for easier handling of cylinders on the surface and during entries and exits.

Sidemount diving has become increasingly popular, and many diving agencies offer specific sidemount training courses. It is commonly used in cave diving, technical diving, and in environments where the traditional back-mounted cylinder configuration may be impractical. It's important for divers to receive proper training and certification before attempting sidemount diving, as it requires specific skills, equipment and knowledge to ensure safety underwater.

To enroll, you need to be at least 15 years old and hold a PADI Open Water Diver certification or equivalent.

There is a combination of theory, equipment configuration workshops, confined water training and open water dives that are typically conducted over 3-4 days.

Training agencies such as PADI & SSI, establish course standards and recommend a minimum number of confined & open water dives.

To enable our students to receive the best quality of sidemount training, we believe that the extra investment in time is essential. This extra tuition will form a solid foundation for continued enjoyment of sidemount diving and prepare divers for potential technical diver training.

Whilst the configuration of sidemount equipment makes it an ideal set-up for technical diving, it is also suitable for recreational open water scuba.

There may be situations where 2 cylinders are not required. With a few minor adjustments it's easy enough to dive with a single cylinder.

Due to the necessary equipment configuration needed for sidemount diving, standard scuba equipment isn't suitable.

It requires dedicated regulators, cylinders and wing systems. We will provide all the equipment needed during the course.

If you have your own sidemount specific kit, then you are more than welcome to use this during the course. If you are not sure if your equipment is suitable, then please get in touch for advice.

During the course you will complete 4 open water dives to a maximum depth of 40 metres. Diving to 40 metres is not mandatory however and will depend on environmental conditions and the students comfort levels.

No, this is not a technical diving course but a recreational diving course that extends your recreational diving limit to 40 metres. Even though extended planning and equipment considerations are covered during the course, this will not qualify you to complete more advanced technical diving.

Enter your answer here

Even though deeper diving exposes you to cooler temperatures and lower light levels, there's plenty to see and experience. Enjoy those deeper wrecks that are less exposed to tidal movement & are more intact or experience the amazing marine life that inhabits deeper water.

Even though you complete the course, this does not mean that your insurance policy will automatically cover you to 40 metres. Whilst some policies will cover you to your certification level, others specifically set shallower depth limits. Please check with your insurance provider to confirm your cover.

No, this is a recreational dive course and all dives will be planned and executed within no decompression limits. Even though emergency decompression procedures are covered and practiced, all dives during and after the course must be conducted within the no stop limits.

To enroll, you need to be at least 15 years old and hold a PADI Adventure Diver certification or equivalent.

The course covers wreck penetration, navigation, safety considerations, and techniques for exploring and mapping wrecks. You'll also learn about potential hazards and how to manage them effectively.

It's important to discuss any concerns with your instructor beforehand. While wreck penetration is optional, the course includes techniques for managing stress and anxiety in confined spaces for those who choose to participate.

The course provides the skills for independent wreck exploration. However, we recommend gaining experience through guided dives before attempting independent wreck dives to enhance safety and confidence, especially when diving on unknown wrecks.

The course consists of 4 open water dives and these are normally conducted over 2 days.

Wreck penetration is an optional part of the course. If you choose to participate, your instructor will guide you through safe and controlled techniques, emphasizing proper training and buoyancy control.

DSMB is an acronym meaning 'Delayed Surface Marker Buoy' and is an buoy that can be inflated during a dive before ascending. This allows the diver to alert surrounding boat traffic that a diver is surfacing.

The PADI Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) Specialty focuses on the use of surface markers for safer ascents and descents. It's ideal for divers who want to enhance their safety skills and become proficient in deploying SMBs

You must be certified as a minimum PADI Open Water Diver/PADI Junior Open Water Diver (or equivalent) and be at least 12 years old.

The course covers deploying SMBs, using reels, and techniques for sending up surface markers during safety stops. You'll also learn about different types of SMBs and their applications for safe and controlled ascents.

The course consists of 2 open water dives and these are normally conducted in a single day.

Delayed Surface Marker Buoys (DSMBs) are crucial tools for scuba divers, and their competent use offers many benefits, contributing to safety and effective surface communication.

1. Safety Marker: DSMBs serve as a highly visible surface marker that indicates the presence of divers below. This is especially important in open water, where boat traffic may be present. The buoy acts as a signal to boats, indicating that there are divers in the vicinity, and helps to prevent accidental collisions.

2. Emergency Signaling: In the event of an emergency underwater, such as a diver separation or running low on air, a DSMB can be deployed to the surface to attract attention. This can aid in the rapid location of a diver in distress and facilitate a quick response from dive buddies or the dive boat.

3. Communication with Surface Support: DSMBs are often used to communicate with the surface support team, whether it's a dive boat or shore-based personnel. Divers can use the buoy to signal that they are ready to ascend, that everything is okay, or to request assistance.

4. Maintaining a Safe Ascent Rate: DSMBs are deployed during the safety stop or decompression stops to help maintain a controlled ascent rate. By releasing the buoy at the safety stop depth and allowing it to ascend at a controlled rate, divers can follow the line and ensure they ascend at the recommended rate, reducing the risk of decompression sickness.

5. Current Navigation: In drift diving or areas with strong currents, DSMBs can be used as a navigation tool. Divers can deploy the buoy and drift along with it, making it easier for the boat or surface support to track their location.

While using a Delayed Surface Marker Buoy (DSMB) may seem straightforward, there are several reasons why taking a course to learn how to use one is recommended:

1. Safety: Safety is paramount in scuba diving. Learning from a qualified instructor ensures that you understand the proper techniques for deploying a DSMB safely. Incorrect use or lack of understanding could lead to accidents or injuries.

2. Equipment Familiarity: You'll get hands on experience with different types of DSMBs and reels, giving you a better understanding of the differences in equipment and help you in making an informed decision when purchasing your own.

3. Buoyancy Control: Deploying a DSMB involves maintaining good buoyancy control. A course will teach you how to control your buoyancy effectively whilst handling a DSMB.

4. Feedback and Correction: In a course setting, instructors can provide real-time feedback and correct any mistakes you may make while practicing DSMB deployment. This immediate feedback is valuable for refining your skills and building confidence.

The PADI Self-Reliant Diver Course focuses on developing the skills and mindset needed for independent diving, enhancing self-sufficiency and safety.

To enroll, you need to be at least 18 years old and hold a PADI Advanced Open Water Diver certification or equivalent & have at least 100 logged dives.

The course covers dive planning, redundant equipment use, gas management, and emergency procedures for solo diving.

The course is designed for experienced divers seeking additional skills and independence. It is not recommended for new divers.

The traditional buddy system of diving has many advantages and for the majority of divers this is there preferred method of diving.

However, some divers find that time after time they are looking after themselves on there dives. Instructors, Divermasters and Photographers often find themselves alone, setting up hang tanks, tying off mooring lines or simply waiting for that perfect shot.

Being self reliant is more than just having the confidence to look after yourself, it is a toolbox of knowledge, skills and equipment with which you can utilise to plan for & handle emergencies.

There are a total of 3 dives to complete and these are normally conducted over 1-2 days.

Enter your answer here

The traditional buddy system has many safety advantages and without question is the safest way to dive. However that doesn't mean that diving alone isn't safe as long as you are properly trained and equipped for such diving.

Undertaking correct training will ensure you have the knowledge and skills required for dealing with situations which you would normally rely on your diving buddy for.

Yes. Each student will use a redundant air source which can be accessed and operated with one hand. These may include a pony cylinder, twin-set with isolation valve or sidemount configuration.

The PADI Enriched Air Specialty, also known as Nitrox, allows divers to extend their no-decompression limits by breathing enriched air. It's a popular course for those looking to maximize bottom time and minimize surface intervals.

You must be certified as a minimum PADI Open Water Diver/PADI Junior Open Water Diver (or equivalent) and be at least 12 years old.

The course covers the benefits and potential risks of enriched air diving, gas analyzing, and dive planning, allowing you to use up-to 40% Nitrox.

Theory is taught via the PADI e-Learning system, giving you the flexibility to study at your own convenience at a time and place that suits you.

This is then followed by a practical session which will cover the process of obtaining, analyzing and logging enriched air fills. This session takes around an hour to complete.

There are then 2 optional open water dives that you may choose to complete. These are normally conducted in a single day.

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The use of Enriched Air Nitrox extends the available bottom time during your dives and shortens the length of subsequent surface interval periods. It is not intended to extend depth limits and can actually limit depths, depending on the enriched air mixture used.

You can generally use most of your existing equipment with enriched air nitrox without any issues. Most manufacturers supply equipment compatible with enriched air mixtures up-to 40%.

The only exception to this are dive cylinders. As the filling process of enriched air cylinders may utilise 100% oxygen, it's important that cylinders are oxygen compatible to reduce the risk of fire or explosion. This means that cylinders used for enriched air are Oxygen cleaned and appropriately labelled.

The PADI Night Diver Specialty focuses on developing skills and confidence for diving in low-light conditions, opening up a new world of underwater exploration.

To enroll, you need to be at least 12 years old and hold a PADI (Junior) Open Water Diver certification or equivalent.

The course covers navigation, communication, and the use of dive torches in low light conditions.

The e-Learning knowledge development section of the course can be conducted at a time and place that is convenient for you and shouldn't take more than a couple of hours to complete.

The 3 open water dives are then conducted over 2-3 evenings.

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Our Scuba Workshops are an immersive and hands-on experience designed to enhance specific aspects of scuba diving. Unlike traditional courses, workshops focus on refining skills, exploring advanced techniques, or addressing particular interests in a single session.

Scuba Workshops cover a range of topics, including buoyancy control, navigation, skills refresher, DSMB use, and more. The content depends on the workshop's theme, offering participants the opportunity to delve into specific areas of interest.

No, not at all.

Our Scuba Workshops are open to all certified divers regardless of training agency affiliation or dive club membership.

Our dive club members do enjoy a wide range of benefits including free access to Scuba Workshops. You can find out more about dive club membership benefits by visiting our membership page.

Scuba Workshops contribute significantly to continuing education. While they may not lead directly to higher-level certifications, the skills and knowledge gained can often be applied toward futher courses, making the workshop a valuable stepping stone in a diver's education

Even though we are a PADI Dive school, we aknowledge and welcome all certified divers regardless of training agency.

Our ethos is 'a certified diver is a certified diver' no matter what agency you trained with.

Our pool sessions are open to all certified divers with a certification level of PADI Open Water Diver or equivalent.

We ask that you bring proof of certification along with you to the workshop.

Yes, absolutely.

In fact, this is a major attraction for a lot of divers as they are able to meet others and form great long lasting friendships that share that passion of the underwater world.

Scuba Workshops sessions are scheduled throughout the year and are conducted at the following locations:

Sundays - Denston College, Denstone, Uttoxeter, ST14 5HN

Thursdays - Chesterton Sports College, Chesterton, Newcastle ST5 7LP

Please check out our scheduled workshops for times & locations.

No. Hiring a cylinder includes the price of the air fill, so the cylinder does not need to be refilled prior to returning it. We do ask that you do not drain cylinders completely and leave at least 20 bar of pressure to ensure no contaminants get inside the cylinder.

We have a wide range of standard dive equipment to hire on a daily, weekend or weekly basis. This includes, masks, fins, snorkels, hoods, gloves, wetsuits, drysuits, undersuits, dive computers, bcd's, regulators, cylinders.

We also have a limited range of dedicated sidemount equipment, including cylinders, regulators and wings.

Unfortunately we are only able to hire scuba equipment to certified divers that hold a recognized qualification. We will need to verify certification, either on-line or by checking physical certification cards.

Drysuits are only available to those that have completed a recognized Drysuit certification course or can provide evidence of at least 20 logged drysuit dives.

Yes.

In order for us to prepare your equipment requirements we will need at least 24 hours notice. This can either be via our website or my contacting us by email.

Full payment is due prior to collection of all equipment to be hired.

Equipment hired is the responsibility or the hirer, any loss or damage must be paid for at the current market value.

Yes.

You will be required to complete an Equipment Rental Form and accept our Terms & Conditions for hiring equipment before we can release any equipment.

Equipment must be collected and returned on the specified dates?

Failure to return on the agreed date will incur additional rental fees, accrued at the standard daily rate charges.

Medical clearance is only necessary for those students that indicate a 'Yes' on one or more of the questions/statements on the RSTC medical statement.

Medical clearance will not be required by those students that do not indicate any medical issues as outlined on the RSTC medical statement.

To enrol onto the PADI Divemaster or Instructor level programs ALL students must be medically evaluated and cleared for diving by a physician within the last 12 months. A signed medical statement must be provided as evidence of fitness to dive.

If you plan to work as a PADI Profesional in the United Kingdom after certification then you will require a HSE diving medical conducted by an Approved Medical Examiner of Divers.

A current list of Approved Medical Examiner of Divers can be found on the HSE website.

Generally your GP should be able to examine and sign the medical statement verifying your fitness to dive. We will provide you with a copy of the RSTC medical statement and 'Guidelines for Recreational Scuba Diver's Physical Examination' to take to your GP.

In some situations your GP may not be able to carry out this service & you will need to seek the services of a private physician.

Please note that your GP may charge for this service.

There are currently 2 HSE Diving Physicians in the Staffordshire region.

Dr C Newell,

Beaconside Medical Centre,

Weston Road,

Stafford,

Staffordshire,

ST18 0AB

07747 357086

Dr A M Gilchrist,

The Dove River Practice,

Tutbury Health Centre,

Monk Street,